The regular season is done and dusted. Sixteen rounds, nine wins, five losses. Sprinkle two byes in there, and you have a picture of the ACT Brumbies season.
Now, only 240 minutes of rugby stand between the Canberrans and a first Super Rugby title since 2004. Needless to say, that is far easier said than done. A heartbreaking loss to the Crusaders ensured a third-place finish. That set up a mouthwatering home clash with the Hurricanes, as 3rd square off against 4th.
The timely return of skipper Allan Alaalatoa is a welcome addition for the home side, who will be looking to avenge their Round 11 loss to the New Zealanders. The new finals format – reduced from eight teams to six – sets up an intriguing proposition for both sides. Under the new system, if the Chiefs and Crusaders were to secure victories, both the Brumbies and Hurricanes would advance through to the semi-finals.
Coach Stephen Larkham dismissed any thoughts that the match could serve as a ‘dead rubber’.
“Either way, we're going out there to try and win the game.”
The Hurricanes enter the match in red-hot form, having dispatched Moana Pasifika in their final game of the regular season. That followed wins against the Reds, Chiefs and Brumbies, as part of a late season resurgence. Languishing in 8th place after Round 9, the Hurricanes have gone unbeaten from that point on to finish the season.
Of course, semi-final hosting rights may be on the line Saturday night. Should our Queensland counterparts upset the Crusaders, Saturday may not prove our final home match. Just as we were supporting the Highlanders last season, Brumbies fans might have to swallow their pride and cheer on the dreaded maroon… in private.
Finals football brings with it a step up in intensity. It is perhaps the closest a player can get to the test match environment whilst at club level. As a result, Saturday night provides the perfect opportunity for our players to display resolve under pressure. As always, Joe Schmidt will be a keen observer, which certainly won’t be lost on our boys.
Brumbies members, your time is now. Make sure to get your tickets for Saturday’s game, as our Brumbies take their first step towards Super Rugby glory.
