‘Emotional Stephen Larkham Savours Brumbies’ Landmark Victory at Eden Park’

Good fortunes seem to arrive every 12 years for Stephen Larkham.

The legendary playmaker was in his element back in 2001 when the ACT Brumbies, on their way to a first Super Rugby championship, dismantled the Blues 35-7 at Eden Park.

Fast forward to 2013, when Larkham, serving as an assistant coach, witnessed the Canberra side clinch victory over the Blues with a score of 20-13 at the same rugby stronghold in New Zealand.

Now, 12 years later, history has repeated itself as the Brumbies overcame a stagnant start to their season to shock the reigning champions with a 21-20 win in Auckland.

“Well, Stephen Larkham, never one to display much emotion,” observed veteran Kiwi rugby commentator Tony Johnson after the match finished.

“He was a composed genius as a player, but look at him now, he seems a bit emotional. What a proud achievement, truly a highlight in his coaching journey. I’ve scarcely seen him smile like that, and he absolutely deserves it. His team played magnificently tonight.”

All Blacks legend Jeff Wilson remarked: “He last experienced such joy when he won a World Cup.”

The Brumbies entered this match under pressure with a 1-2 record, having only lost two regular-season games the previous year.

Things appeared grim when Beauden Barrett scored an early try, but the star player didn’t return for the second half due to what looked to be a serious hand injury.

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After Barrett’s departure, the Blues struggled in the second half while the Brumbies showcased a stellar defensive effort, culminating in halfback Ryan Lonergan successfully kicking the winning penalty after a powerful scrum set him up for the shot at goal.

Larkham, affectionately nicknamed ‘Bernie’—after the character from Weekend at Bernie’s—is known for his calm and collected demeanor. However, he admitted to feeling fired up during half-time while his side trailed 20-10.

His television interview was postponed due to the timing, as Larkham shared, “I actually got a bit hyped up. It’s very unusual for me, so I had to take a moment to collect myself. I went to the bathroom, glanced in the mirror, but it was too late by then for the TV segment.”

Reflecting on last season, he noted, “We played the Blues twice last year, and they dominated with their carries. We had a chat about that.”

Larkham participated in the 1997 Super Rugby final at Eden Park, where the Blues triumphed 23-7.

Friday evening held special significance for Brumbies prop James Slipper, as he played his 186th Super Rugby match, moving him past Aaron Smith into second place on the all-time capped list, only behind Wyatt Crockett (202).

As the only player on the field for the Brumbies from their 2013 victory, Slipper noted he had never secured a win at Eden Park throughout his illustrious Wallabies career.

“It was a fantastic night. No one in our team has won here before, except myself, so it felt brilliant,” the 35-year-old reflected.

“We’ve had a challenging start to the year, and we were eager to perform well against a formidable opponent. Winning at Eden Park after 186 games is something special for me,” Slipper stated.

“How much longer will I play? I have no idea, but I’m truly savouring my time on the field at the moment. You must relish these moments, as victories at Eden Park are rare against the Blues or any team.”

“It’s taken me a full 12 years to secure another win here, and this is one of those occasions we will cherish.”

Was Auckland on alert? Wilson teased.

“I’ll be hitting the hay early tonight,” Slipper replied dryly.

Brumbies 21 (tries from Allan Alaalatoa, Declan Meredith; Meredith converted 2, and a penalty, followed by Ryan Lonergan’s penalty) Blues 20 (tries from Beauden Barrett, Angus Ta’avao, Rieko Ioane; Barrett converted and added a penalty). Half-time: 10-20