The Blues are on high alert as they prepare to face the Brumbies in the Super Rugby semi-finals this Friday. All Blacks flanker Dalton Papali’i has voiced the team’s expectation of a strong comeback from the Brumbies, who are eager for redemption after suffering a decisive 46-7 defeat during their last encounter in April.
The upcoming match will determine which team will advance to the grand final against either the Hurricanes or the Chiefs. The Brumbies have displayed an impressive winning streak, securing victory in all seven games since their defeat to the Blues. Papali’i has acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Brumbies, anticipating a fierce showdown on the field.
With Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu sidelined by a knee injury, Papali’i will take on the role of captain as the team prepares to defend their home ground at Eden Park. Despite holding the advantage of playing on their home turf, Papali’i stressed that the team is fully aware of the threat posed by the Brumbies and is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the upcoming match.
The intense physicality of previous encounters with the Brumbies has set the stage for an anticipated battle of the packs at Eden Park. In response, Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham has strategically named six replacement forwards on his bench in anticipation of a demanding match against the Blues’ formidable pack.
Furthermore, the return of experienced Wallabies prop James Slipper, who has recovered from a calf strain, is expected to bolster the Brumbies’ forward line. Larkham expressed confidence in Slipper’s ability to provide stability to the team’s front-rowers and adapt to the challenges presented during the match.
The high stakes of the semi-final match have set the stage for a thrilling showdown between the Blues and the Brumbies. As both teams gear up for a collision on the field, the level of anticipation for the upcoming match continues to rise.
Source:
Stan Sport – Super Rugby. “Hosts Blues brace for Brumbies Super Rugby backlash”