The ACT Brumbies made Super Rugby Pacific history by becoming the first Australian team to defeat the Fijian Drua on their home ground, winning a thrilling match 36-32 at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This victory marks a milestone for the Brumbies as they extend their unbeaten record against the Drua.
The match was a tightly contested encounter characterized by significant lead changes and intense moments. The Brumbies initially took control thanks to an early try from hooker Billy Pollard, followed by further scoring from Ollie Sapsford and Ryan Lonergan as the Drua struggled with discipline, resulting in two yellow cards in the first half. Despite some shaky moments under rainy conditions, the Drua fought back with tries from debutants Vuate Karawalevu and Ponipate Loganimasi, who showcased their talents with impressive performances, including Karawalevu scoring twice.
As the match neared its conclusion, the tides turned once again with Brumbies flanker Luke Reimer stepping up to score two critical late tries, ultimately sealing the win for his team. This comeback was crucial, especially following a phase where the Drua had built a commanding 32-24 lead.
Brumbies captain Ryan Lonergan praised the atmosphere at the stadium, noting it was a challenging environment for players, particularly those experiencing it for the first time. He acknowledged the Drua’s competitive spirit and their ability to generate excitement among fans.
While the loss was disappointing for the Drua, head coach Glen Jackson emphasized pride in his team’s performance and expressed optimism in addressing discipline and decision-making areas moving forward. This match exemplified the resilience of both teams and sets a promising tone for the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific season.
In summary, the Brumbies’ victory is not only a significant achievement but also signals hope for the Drua as they develop their squad with young talent. Fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead, with both teams showcasing exceptional skill and determination.
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