Experienced Rugby Union Coach Faces Prop Dilemma Ahead of Finals
ACT Brumbies Coach Grapples with Injury Crisis in Prop Position
ACT Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham is facing a critical prop crisis as his side prepares for the upcoming rugby union finals. In the Brumbies’ 24-19 victory over the Western Force in their final regular-season match, two Wallabies forwards sustained injuries, casting doubt over their participation in the quarter-final next Saturday.
The Brumbies’ starting prop Blake Schoupp, who was making his return from a previous shoulder injury, appeared to have dislocated the same shoulder just two minutes into the match. Additionally, veteran prop James Slipper is battling an upper calf injury, further compounding Larkham’s prop problems.
“Despite the setbacks, the Brumbies were able to secure a positive result, going into the finals with momentum.”
Despite the challenges, the Brumbies were able to secure a positive result, going into the finals with momentum. However, they were unable to secure a top-two finish, finishing third in the Super Rugby Pacific standings after the Blues and Hurricanes secured victories.
In the match, the Brumbies opened the scoring with a try from captain Allan Ala’alatoa in the sixth minute, followed by a try from speedster Connor Toole, who crossed the line for his eighth try of the season. The Force applied consistent pressure but were often their own worst enemies, making costly errors in attacking positions.
The Force managed to claw their way back into the game when Brumbies halfback Ryan Lonergan was shown a yellow card, allowing the home side to score a try through flanker Carlo Tizzano. However, the Brumbies’ defense held strong in the second half, and Toole’s pace proved crucial in denying the Force a try-scoring opportunity.
Late in the match, Toole’s break-away run set up a try for fullback Tom Wright, and the Brumbies were able to see out the game, despite the Force scoring two late consolation tries.
With the finals looming, Larkham will be eagerly assessing the fitness of his prop forwards, particularly Schoupp and Slipper, as the Brumbies prepare to host the Highlanders in the quarter-final at GIO Stadium next Saturday.
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