PRC - Brumby Runners 30-28 Fiji Warriors

The Brumby Runners edged a tight tussle with Fiji Warriors to triumph 30-28 at Viking Park and finish top of the Australian Series table with an unbeaten record, condemning their visitors to a first loss in the process.

The Fijians did have the chance to snatch victory after the siren had sounded with a penalty from the halfway line, but the attempt fell agonisingly short to the relief of the Canberra crowd.

A penalty from Matt Toomua, a key member of the Australian Under 20 side that reached the IRB Junior World Championship final last year, two minutes from time therefore proved the difference in a match which saw the lead change several times.

Despite falling behind early after a penalty to Fijian fly half Taniela Maravunawasawasa, the Brumby Runners moved out to lead 17-3 courtesy of tries from Clint Sills and Andrew Smith.

However, a lapse in concentration by the ACT side let the Warriors back into the contest. Tries by wing Jona Tuitoga and flanker Aca Ratuva brought the Fijians to within touching distance before a 35-metre penalty by Maravunawasawasa after the half-time siren gave the visitors an 18-17 lead.

Number 8 Peter Kimlin worked hard in both attack and defence, using his massive frame to remove Fijian defenders from the ruck on a number of occasions. The former Wallaby’s physicality proved the difference for the Runners early in the second half, when constant pressure resulted in tries for prop Jono Owen and centre Sam Carter.
 
But with Kimlin being rested and 25 minutes to go, the Fiji Warriors again pulled themselves back in to the game through a Maravunawasawasa drop goal and Paula Karatu try, but it was to no avail as the Brumby Runners clung to the most slender of leads.