Defending champions ACT Brumbies overcame new injuries on Friday to beat South Africa’s Stormers 22-19 Friday in the Super 12 rugby union competition.
Already missing key backline players, including Stirling Mortlock, Matt Giteau and Mark Gerrard, the Brumbies suffered a further blow on the eve of the match when centre Gene Fairbanks withdrew because of a facial injury.
Clyde Rathbone, who was moved to the centres for Fairbanks, was replaced in the 20th minute after a heavy blow sustained in a tackle by Stormers centre De Wet Barry.
Barry spent time in the sin bin for a high tackle on Joel Wilson. Thereafter, the Brumbies scored, with replacement back Henry Veratau crossing the line after Stephen Larkham’s split the defence.
The Stormers responded with a try to winger Jean de Villiers, his first of two on the night.
In the second half, lock Radike Samo scored for the Brumbies in the 28th minute, and Ben Batger added the third ACT try. — Sapa-AP
Scores:
ACT 22 (Henari Veratau, Radike Samo, Ben Batger tries; Stephen Larkham two conversions; George Gregan drop goal)
Stormers 19 (Jean de Villiers two, Eddie Andrews tries; Gaffie du Toit two conversions)