Toole try completes Brumbies fightback

THE Brumbies stole an unforgettable, high-octane Australian derby as Corey Toole’s 77th-minute try completed an astonishing 40-36 comeback win against the Waratahs. 

- CAM STEPHENS

On the eve of Eddie Jones’ first Wallabies squad announcement, the Tahs started brightest, scoring through Dylan Pietsch and Dave Porecki before Len Ikitau crossed in his return for the Brumbies.

A chaotic end to the half saw the Tahs score through Jed Holloway despite being reduced to 13 men as Harry Johnson-Holmes and Daniel Botha were binned for repeated infringements defending the line before James Slipper powered over, leaving the visitors 21-14 up at the break.

The Brumbies thought they’d drawn level minutes into the second half, but a forward pass denied them a try before Lalakai Foketi finished off a stunning end-to-end try off the resulting scrum to stretch the lead for Darren Coleman’s side.

Slipper completed a rare try double minutes later before Mark Nawaqanitawase’s wonderful chip and chase score once again kept the Canberra-based side at bay. But scores from Pete Samu and Lachie Lonergan on either side of Michael Hooper’s yellow card gave Stephen Larkham’s side a 35-33 lead with ten to play.

Ben Donaldson regained the lead for the Waratahs before Toole’s well-worked winner secured the 11th straight win for the Brumbies over their Aussie rivals.