Too big, too fast, and too strong.
The Brumbies’ top two Super Rugby hopes have been dealt a savage blow after being steamrolled by the Hurricanes, losing 35-29 on Saturday night in Canberra.
While the Brumbies threatened to make a game of it in the final stages after Andy Muirhead crossed out wide, the Hurricanes managed to play the ball at the right end of the field to help them snap a three-match losing streak.
The six-point win was the Hurricanes’ first win in Canberra since 2017 – and it came not a second too late, with the victory moving the men from Wellington above the Force and Waratahs into fifth spot.
Kini Naholo was on fire during the Hurricanes’ drought-breaking win over the Brumbies at GIO Stadium on April 26, 2025. (Photo by Mark Nolan/Getty Images)
The return of All Blacks midfielder Billy Proctor was pivotal.
After being eased back via the bench last week in their draw against the Force last week, the rising Test centre brought the poise and execution to the Hurricanes’ backline that had previously been missing. His combination with Riley Higgins helped expose the Brumbies’ backline, with Corey Toole experiencing a tough evening.
Damaging winger Kini Naholo was one of the stars for the Hurricanes, running over the top of the Brumbies’ backs, including halfback Ryan Lonergan, on his way to scoring twice.
It won’t take long for Larkham to realise where the game was lost, with the Brumbies missing 40 tackles, including 25 in the first half as the visitors raced out to a 20-15 lead at half time.
“We’ll look back at that game and say we missed too many tackles,” said Brumbies skipper Allan Alaalatoa, who scored a first half try.
“Our tackle completion wasn’t great, especially around the ruck. When we scored points, they scored pretty much straight after.
“I thought we were down our end a bit. I think it came down to their strong carries and our poor defence.”
Hurricanes skipper Du’Plessis Kirifi said his side came to Canberra believing their season was on the line.
“Very proud,” the physical flanker said.
“We were just saying before, I’ve been playing Super for eight or nine years now and I’ve never won in Canberra so to come over here and get one across is pretty pleasing, not just for the game itself, our season was on the line. A win tonight keeps us in the hunt and helps us build momentum. It’s no easy feat coming here and beating the Brumbies at home.”
