The Brumbies last night issued a graphic warning that they will require some stopping in their bid to take the Super 12 title out of New Zealand for the first time.
In seeing off a brave Highlanders challenge 34-15 in Canberra last night, the Brumbies showed the hallmarks of a champion side.
They picked up a bonus point in the process to move to the top of the table, a point clear of the Hurricanes on 25 points.
The Brumbies dominated the first half, spluttered through the third quarter as the Highlanders began to flex some muscle, then shot clear with two fine tries in the final few minutes.
The Australians combined formidable defensive work with slick inter-passing and bruising running to leave the Highlanders merely clinging on through Tony Brown's goalkicking.
With two-thirds possession and significant advantages in rucks and mauls, lineout wins and error rate, the Brumbies deserved their 21-9 halftime lead.
Halfback George Gregan engineered a clever move close to the Highlanders' line for lock David Giffin to plough over, and Andrew Walker's twinkling running got him through Jeff Wilson's ineffective tackle.
But to the Highlanders' credit, they battled away, Brown keeping them in the hunt with three penalties, but there was a lack of thrust in the backline - Rua Tipoki the honourable exception.
When Mark Bartholomeusz bolted through a gap seven minutes from time, the Highlanders were caught out on the short side and Stephen Larkham grabbed the decisive try. Joe Roff's record 36th Super 12 try simply iced the cake.
Brumbies 34 (David Giffin, Andrew Walker, Stephen Larkham, Joe Roff tries; Stirling Mortlock 4 pen, 1 con). Highlanders 15 (Tony Brown 5 pen). Halftime 21-9.
Rugby: Brumbies show class in big win
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.