Blues Gear Up for Semi-Final Clash with Brumbies
May 11, 2024 – Auckland, New Zealand
The Blues, the dominant force in Super Rugby Pacific this season, are set to host the Brumbies in a semi-final clash at Eden Park. With a place in the final on the line, the home side will be relying on young lock Sam Darry to step up in the absence of injured captain Patrick Tuipulotu.
Flanker Dalton Papali’i will take over the captaincy duties, leading a team brimming with confidence after a 14-game winning streak at their fortress, Eden Park. The Blues previously defeated the Brumbies in the 2022 semi-final at the same venue, emerging victorious by a narrow 20-19 margin.
“We don’t need to do anything drastically different just because we’re playing a Semi Final,” said Blues head coach Vern Cotter. “We know what’s served us well this season, strong ball carries, breakdown efficiency and astute decision making – nothing changes on Friday night.”
The Brumbies, however, have found their stride in recent weeks, winning their last three matches against New Zealand opposition, including victories over the Hurricanes, Crusaders, and Highlanders.
This semi-final clash will hold special significance for Blues loose forward Akira Ioane, who has confirmed that this season will be his last in blue before embarking on a new challenge overseas.
“Aki is a veteran of this team, a man of action and someone who commands respect from both his team mates and his opposition,” Cotter said. “The boys know this could be the last time he runs out on Eden Park in a Blues jersey and we want to make sure we put in a performance worthy of the occasion.”
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, with the electric atmosphere at Eden Park set to play a crucial role in the outcome of the match. Both sides will be determined to secure their spot in the coveted Super Rugby Pacific final.
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