Once more, halfback TJ Perenara was forced to deal with poor ball presentation which, in turn, limits the time and space of those outside him. This is something that will warm the hearts of opposition to come, and perhaps create a perception the Hurricanes have a soft underbelly.
If the Brumbies pack can expose frailties here, imagine how confident the South Africans will be about doing likewise this week.
Coles' experience should help steady this area but he cannot be expected to do it alone. His performance off the pine in his first match back for more than four months after battling concussion was remarkable.
As we've come to take for granted, Coles looked nothing like a hooker when he dummied and stepped his way down the blindside to set up Perenara for game's decisive try. So much for rust. On this evidence, the captain will certainly lead his men out next week in Johannesburg or Wellington.
While slow starts are proving problematic for the Hurricanes, they can seek solace from their second half performances under Boyd and John Plumtree.
In six knockout matches since 2015, they have conceded just 17 second half points. The energy and impact offered off the bench from the likes of flanker Callum Gibbins and prop Chris Eves is proving instrumental in this regard.
Given the second half is when scoreboard pressure can consume teams, the Hurricanes' record here speaks volumes of their composure, organisation and will evoke optimism about their prospects.
Clearly, though, major improvements elsewhere are required.
With front-foot ball attacking threats in the form of Nehe Milner-Skudder, Ardie Savea, Barrett and Goosen will always trouble any opposition. But how long the Hurricanes can continue to defy their shaky platform remains the big unknown.
