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'Really proud': How the Brumbies overcame 'a tough month' to defeat 'quality' Hurricanes side
By AAP
The Brumbies finally ended their losing run against New Zealand opposition on Saturday night, grinding out a 12-10 victory over the Hurricanes in front of a home crowd.
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And after Hurricanes star Jordie Barrett missed two clear chances to steal victory, Brumbies coach Dan McKellar said it was about time some luck went their way.
McKellar’s side were stunned four minutes into extra time in the Super Rugby AU final against the Queensland Reds last month, and followed it with three consecutive losses to New Zealand teams in the Trans-Tasman competition.
Although the domestic championship loss will be difficult to overcome, McKellar is happy his players can finally enjoy a victory back at home.
“It’s been a tough month. You go back to the grand final and that’s one that we’ll probably never get over,” he said after the win against the Hurricanes.
“We managed to get ourselves up for the Crusaders (following the grand final) and we were unlucky against a team I consider the best in the world.
“The last two weeks we’ve just been disappointing and we were disappointed last week with how we performed in what was a significant game.
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“But we stuck tight and stuck at it … just really proud we squeezed out a result against a quality side.”
The win was played in front of Brumbies fans who braved a chilly Canberra evening for the club’s first home game in six weeks, making it all the sweeter.
“Anytime we pull on the jersey it’s a special moment and that’s how our group approaches it,” McKellar said.
“Tonight was an opportunity back in front of faithful supporters who came out and braved the cold in tough conditions and we’re just pleased that we can deliver for them.
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“Off the back of the last four weeks that we’ve had, to bounce back tonight is what we’re what we’re most proud of.
“We deserve a bit of luck I think to be honest, we haven’t had a whole lot lately.”
The Brumbies face the unbeaten Highlanders next Friday in the final round of the Trans-Tasman competition.
