The ACT Brumbies missed a crucial opportunity to close the gap with the Super Rugby Pacific ladder leaders after falling to the Hurricanes in a thrilling 35-29 defeat in Canberra. The Brumbies, who were third in the standings, had maintained a strong home record against the Hurricanes, having not lost to them at home since 2017 and winning five of their last six encounters.
Despite a promising start with captain Allan Alaalatoa scoring in the eighth minute, the Brumbies struggled to maintain their momentum, with each Brumbies score being answered quickly by resolute Hurricanes players. Notably, Kini Naholo emerged as a key player for the Hurricanes, scoring two tries in what was a standout performance.
Brumbies playmaker Noah Lolesio expressed disappointment over the loss, acknowledging the impact it had on their position in the standings. “We did really well in the second half to claw it back, but we weren’t good enough at the end,” he stated, praising the Hurricanes for their tactical approach, particularly in the first half when they dominated possession.
Lolesio also mentioned feeling a newfound freedom in his game since announcing his move to Japan, allowing him to focus on enjoying his current role within the team. As the Brumbies navigate this setback, they will be aiming to learn from the experience and bounce back in their upcoming games.
This game serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the Super Rugby Pacific, where even strong teams like the Brumbies can face formidable challenges. Fans of the Brumbies can remain hopeful, as this season continues to showcase the resilience and evolving skills of their squad. The competitive spirit displayed in matches like these sets a promising foundation for the remainder of the season, as teams adapt and grow through the challenges they face on the field.
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