The Crusaders have prevailed in the Super Rugby Pacific's biggest heavyweight battle of the season so far, but it didn't come easily against the Brumbies in a GIO Stadium thriller.
Noah Lolesio says he wanted to repay the Brumbies after they gave him a rugby start while he was excited about learning under incoming coach Stephen Larkham.
The benchmark Brumbies have restored some pride to Australian rugby with a pivotal 38-28 win over the Waikato Chiefs in Hamilton, New Zealand on Saturday.
A breathtaking Rob Valetini try has helped the Brumbies take down a New Zealand opponent for a second straight week, knocking off the Hurricanes 42-25 at GIO Stadium.
Brumbies head coach Dan McKellar has made just one change to his starting side to take on the Hurricanes in round 11 of Super Rugby Pacific this Sunday at GIO Stadium Canberra.
The Brumbies have outplayed the Highlanders 28-17, booking the first victory of an Australian team over their Kiwi opponents during Super Round in Melbourne.
The Queensland Reds have defied another red card to end the Brumbies' unbeaten run and draw level with their Australian rivals at the top of the Super Rugby Pacific ladder.
Brumbies coach Dan McKellar has called for the introduction of an orange card following a "ridiculous" red card for Tom Banks in the one-point win over the Western Force.
Queensland are looking to continue their recent win streak against the Brumbies and topple them from their place at the top of the Super Rugby Pacific ladder.
