Our Brumbies gear up to renew Super Rugby’s fiercest rivalry here in the capital as the ACT Brumbies host the NSW Waratahs this Saturday, kick-off 7:35pm.
The Waratahs may have handed us defeat in our Round 6 match-up earlier this season, but it’s worth remembering the record prior to that. 13 straight victories over the old foe – which now stands as 13 of the last 14 – is as dominant a record as any in Super Rugby.
Now, however, is not the time to dwell on the past. With the run into the finals now in full swing, Brumbies members will be expecting normal order to be restored on Saturday night. The Waratahs themselves will feel the need for correction, having been defeated in Fiji in their last match. Their much-needed Round 11 bye will no doubt aid their preparation, though the Hurricanes’ victory in Canberra saw the NSW side fall out of the top six.
It is worth noting that the Waratahs have a game in hand over the Brumbies, with the ladder not entirely truthful until all sides have enjoyed two byes.
For the home fans, the result of this game – and all remaining games – has extra importance. Each victory is a step closer to a home final, which can prove the difference between progressing further in the competition or having an early holiday.
There are no prizes for guessing what the focus would be at Brumbies training this week. An uncharacteristic 46 missed tackles cost our boys the opportunity to win against the Hurricanes, as well as 10 penalties conceded.
Those numbers were in stark contrast to the week before against Moana Pasifika, where the Canberrans recorded the only defensive shut-out of the season.
The Waratahs, on the other hand, hold a record much like that of the Fijian Drua. Undefeated in four home games to date, the Sydneysiders are yet to record a victory away from Allianz Stadium.
Although our Fortress GIO Stadium here in Canberra taking a few knocks this season, one man tipped to sure up its defences is fullback Tom Wright. His match-up with Joseph Suaalii has understandably been placed front and centre heading into Saturday.
Despite still searching for his best position, the Waratahs recruit will be desperate to loosen Tom Wright’s hold on the Wallabies 15 jersey. As if fans needed any more reasons to attend…
All 2025 ACT Brumbies Full Season Members have access to GIO Stadium home games using their 2025 Membership cards. 4 and 2 Game Reserved Seat Members can redeem their tickets via Ticketek, while 4 and 2 Game General Admission Members can use their card to enter the games of their choice.
Super Rugby Pacific Round 12 vs Waratahs
Date: Saturday 3 May
Gates Open: 5pm
Curtain Raiser: Brumbies Runners vs Hong Kong China 5:05pm
Kick-off: 7:35pm
Brumbies Members, don’t forget your 20% discount on tickets, check the latest email of The Round Up for the discount link, or email membership@brumbies.rugby.
For those politically inclined and wanting to watch the election, why not do both! There be live coverage throughout the night in The Slab at GIO Stadium, located on the southern end precinct. Don’t miss the ULTIMATE showdown, as your Brumbies face the Waratahs at GIO Stadium.
