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Brumbies trounce the Highlanders

Roar Guru
13th April, 2013
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Roar Guru
13th April, 2013
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The Brumbies continued the Highlanders terrible start to the season with a comprehensive 30-19 win, punctuated by a huge performance from George Smith and the return of Jesse Mogg and Toomua to the Brumbies’ backline.

Pre-game former All Black John Preston commented that the Highlanders expected the Brumbies to play a South African style of rugby.

The Brumbies did not disappoint, with a number of testing high balls from Jesse Mogg testing the Highlanders, Mose Tualii in particular.

The first half was highlighted by some superb running from Henry Speight, which lead Kiwi commentator Tony Johnstone to quip that Henry Speight was the best winger in Australia.

On the other wing, Joseph Tomane had another strong, consistent game picking up an opportunist try off the back of some good defence in midfield from the Brumbies.

The Highlanders’ attack was blunted by some great Brumbies defence, which showed good linespeed and commitment. In the end the Highlanders’ seemed incapable of breaking the line, despite occasionally bending it.

Notably, Ma’a Nonu’s quiet form continues, and questions will certainly begin to be asked about his claim to the All Black’s no 12 jersey.

This game also marked the return of Mogg and Toomua to the backline after spells due to injuries. Toomua had a strong game, showing some sublime skill to chip and chase and then put Speight away down the right hand side of the field.

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Importantly, Toomua also came up with a momentum changing tackle which forced a knock on from Hayden Parker (who was impressive) when the Highlanders where on attack. Mogg showed his importance to the structure of the Brumbies play, primarily with his kicking.

His long range kicking and bombs, where important in providing the territorial foundation for the Brumbies win.

While many players miss tackles on Jose Gear, Mogg should be expected to make covering tackles such as the one he missed on Gear which should have led to a try (but for the decision of the TMO).

This was a strong win for the Brumbies and will provide some good momentum for the Brumbies moving towards their big clash with the Reds.

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