A blitzkrieg of two tries inside the opening 10 minutes set the Brumbies up for a comprehensive 38-13 win over the Sharks in their Super Rugby quarterfinal match in Canberra on Saturday.
The hosts outscored the Durbanites, whose defence let them down badly in the narrower channels, by five tries to one, showcasing how important it is to make us of one’s opportunities.
In cold conditions, with the temperatures dropping to 4 degrees at kickoff and almost at freezing point during the game, the Brumbies warmed their supporters hearts by also producing an accomplished effort on defence, adding gloss to a complete performance and setting up a semifinal clash against the Jaguares in Buenos Aires next weekend.
For the Sharks, yet another unfulfilled season comes to a close.
Who was the star in this match?
Brumbies lock Rory Arnold, who stands 2.08m in his boots, has been impressive all year and he set up the team’s first try when he neatly passed inside to set up No 8 Pete Samu for his first try, while he also played a role in the second try scored by wing Henry Speight. He stopped a potential Sharks try from a maul three minutes before the break, breaking through the middle and creating a vital turnover.
Key moments and themes
Point scorers:
Brumbies – Tries: Pete Samu (2), Henry Speight, Joe Powell, Matt Lucas. Conversions: Christian Leali’ifano (5). Penalty: Leali’ifano.
Sharks – Try: Andre Esterhuizen. Conversion: Curwin Bosch. Penalties: Bosch (2).
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