The ACT Brumbies have etched their name in history as the first Australian side to triumph over the Fijian Drua on their home turf.
Flanker Luke Reimer showcased an exceptional performance, providing Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt with a timely reminder of his talents.
Following a successful head injury assessment (HIA) and a return to the field in the sweltering conditions of Suva, Reimer managed to secure two crucial late breakdown turnovers and crossed the line for two tries, sealing a thrilling 36-32 win on Saturday.
The Brumbies celebrate a try in their Super Rugby Pacific match. Getty
This victory marked a strong opening to the Super Rugby Pacific season, following two thrilling and high-scoring matches on Friday night.
“We adapted on the fly,” said Brumbies captain and try-scorer Ryan Lonergan.
“The Drua put us under significant pressure. They were exceptional with the awkward ball we provided them, and they capitalised on it.”
“However, our set-piece play in the closing moments really put us back into contention, and Luke Reimer’s outstanding tries were crucial. I’m sure his performance will be much talked about. He was simply brilliant in the second half.”
The win was particularly remarkable considering Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham fielded six players making their debut.
He was without notable Wallabies players Rob Valetini, Len Ikitau, Tom Wright, James Slipper, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, and Charlie Cale for various reasons.
Corey Toole of the Brumbies charges with the ball in Suva. Getty
“We decided to take a bold step and head to Fiji without most of our Wallabies players,” Larkham stated in his pre-match remarks.
“The remaining squad members have trained exceptionally well, and there’s a strong camaraderie within the team right now. If I evaluate this season against the last, I believe we are in a better position.”
Debutants Austin Anderson, Feao Fotuaika, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Lington Ieli, Judah Saumaisue, and Kadin Pritchard proved Larkham’s gamble to be a brilliant one.
“I’m immensely proud that we managed to bring six debutants into the fray, and to see them exhibit such determination in fighting back from behind is commendable,” said Lonergan.
“They have toiled diligently throughout the pre-season, putting in hard work behind the scenes, and it’s gratifying to see them enjoying success now.”
With the Waratahs claiming a narrow 37-36 victory against the Highlanders on Friday, Australian teams are now 2-0 in the opening round.
The Brumbies will face off against the Force in round two, while the Drua are set to take on the Hurricanes.
“Bernie (Larkham) has often talked about the importance of adaptability,” noted Lonergan.
“Rugby is never a perfect game, so we must be ready to adjust as situations change.”
The Drua were dealt a blow with yellow cards for Isikeli Rabitu and Vuate Karawalevu in the first half, forcing them to play with just 13 players at one point.
Brumbies 36
Tries: Reimer 2, Pollard, Sapsford, R Lonergan, van Nek
Conversions: Lolesio 2/4, Meredith 1/2
Drua 32
Tries: Karawalevu 2, Kuruvoli, Loganimasi
Conversions: Muntz 3/4
Pens: Muntz 2/2
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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