The stage is set for one of Australian rugby’s fiercest rivalries, as the ACT Brumbies head north to face the Queensland Reds in Round 12 of the 2026 Swyftx Super Rugby Pacific season, with the Macqueen Cup on the line.
The Round 4 meeting between these sides produced one of the more chaotic games in recent memory. Lightning struck the stadium, delaying kick-off several times. The drama, unfortunately, was not limited to pre-game. A late surge from the visitors saw our Brumbies go down in heartbreaking fashion, setting up a blockbuster revenge bout this Saturday.
Head Coach Stephen Larkham is expecting an improved performance in Brisbane, and is excited to showcase the sport in a vital clash for finals positions.
“On the back of our last two games, we’re coming into this weekend with a drive to put a good performance out there - and I’m sure the Reds will be the same. Hopefully both teams can put on a really good spectacle, so that hopefully a new audience can watch and see how beautiful our game is.”
He also pointed to the finishing power of the opposition and the mindset required to match it.
“They’ve shown this year that they’re a very good finishing team, the Reds. So that’s going to be a challenge for us and a challenge that I think the boys who were involved in that last game against the Reds will be cherishing.”
At hooker, Lachlan Lonergan earns the start in the No.2 jersey after a strong return from injury, rewarded for his impact and work rate. He will be joined in the front row by James Slipper and Rhys Van Nek.
Nick Frost and Lachlan Shaw provide the tall timber in the locks, whilst Rob Valetini, Rory Scott, and Toby Macpherson form the back row.
The backline remains unchanged from last week’s match, with skipper Ryan Longeran and Declan Meredith once again combining in the halves. David Feliuai and Kadin Pritchard are set to continue their midfield partnership, in what looks to be a pivotal area of the game.
The in-form Corey Toole will be looking to continue his try scoring form on the wing, opposite the reliable Andy Muirhead. Tom Wright rounds out the starting XV at fullback.
Liam Bowron is named among the finishers having displayed excellent form in the John I Dent Cup, whilst Cadeyrn Neville returns to the matchday squad after his stint on the sidelines.
Blake Schoupp, Darcy Breen, Luke Reimer, Klayton Thorn, Tane Edmed, and Ollie Sapsford round out the replacements in what is sure to prove a battle of attrition.
Saturday’s clash will be shown live and free on 9Gem, with coverage starting from 7pm. With prime-time, free-to-air viewing, the battle for the Macqueen Cup shapes as must-watch rugby for any fan.
