Brumbies Face Reality Check in Perth Pre-Season Defeat
The ACT Brumbies have received a sobering wake-up call in their Super Rugby Pacific preparations, suffering a comprehensive 42-12 defeat against the Western Force in Perth. This pre-season trial match served as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead for the Canberra-based franchise as they navigate life without several departed stars.
A Difficult Day at Scotch College
Friday's encounter at Perth's Scotch College proved particularly challenging for the Brumbies, who found themselves overwhelmed by a dominant Force forward pack inspired by Carlo Tizzano. The hosts established complete control early, racing to a commanding 35-0 lead by halftime while capitalising on the Brumbies' experimental lineup.
Coach Stephen Larkham maintained perspective despite the heavy scoreline, emphasising that pre-season trials should not trigger panic within the squad. However, the performance highlighted significant areas requiring attention before their round one encounter.
Absent Stars and New Combinations
The Brumbies fielded a squad missing numerous Test representatives, including James Slipper, Nick Frost, Rob Valetini, Billy Pollard, Ryan Lonergan, Corey Toole and Luke Reimer. The team continues adjusting to life without recently departed players Len Ikitau, Noah Lolesio and Tom Hooper, creating opportunities for emerging talent.
Tane Edmed experienced a challenging debut at flyhalf, requiring more time and space to operate effectively, while Declan Meredith delivered mixed results during his 40-minute stint at fullback as the search continues for Tom Wright's replacement.
Positive Signs Amid the Defeat
Several Brumbies players demonstrated encouraging form despite the disappointing result. Charlie Cale returned to action after nearly eleven months sidelined with stress fractures, actively seeking involvement throughout the match. Rory Scott competed fiercely at the breakdown, while veteran lock Cadeyrn Neville played a crucial role in stabilising the contest during the second half.
The Brumbies managed two consolation tries through a penalty try and a score from Liam Bowron, though Henry Robertson crossed for the Force's seventh try during the closing minutes following a scrum malfunction.
Looking Ahead to Waratahs Clash
Following their return to Canberra on Saturday, the Brumbies immediately turn attention to Thursday's trial against the NSW Waratahs at Marist College. This match presents an opportunity for Larkham to reintegrate his remaining Wallabies contingent, having deliberately rested most Test players during the Perth excursion.
The Thursday afternoon kickoff at 1.30pm allows students to experience Super Rugby action while providing the Brumbies with a nine-day preparation window before their season opener against the Force in Perth.
Gruelling Travel Schedule Looms
The Brumbies face an exceptionally demanding travel itinerary during the opening weeks of their campaign. Two cross-country flights to Perth within three weeks will be followed by a trans-Tasman journey to face the Crusaders, accumulating over 17,000 kilometres across 25 days.
Injured captain Allan Alaalatoa acknowledged the schedule's physical toll while expressing confidence in the squad's preparation. "The good thing about that schedule is it came out a couple of months ago, so the boys are well aware of what we have to do," Alaalatoa stated.
The influential prop faces an extended period on the sidelines with a back injury, potentially missing half the season as rehabilitation continues. Alaalatoa admitted struggling as a spectator, noting "I'm already getting itchy feet. That's going to be the hardest part" during his recovery process.
Despite the challenging beginning, the Brumbies remain focused on refining combinations and building momentum ahead of their Super Rugby Pacific campaign, with Larkham and his coaching staff carefully managing player workloads during this critical preparation phase.
