The Brumbies have booked their place in the Super Rugby AU Final after defeating the Western Force 21-9 at GIO Stadium.
In a gritty contest, tries from Tom Wright and Tom Banks were enough to set up a rematch of the 2020 Final against the Reds.
So what we did learn?
1.Rob steps up
In a back-row that has been decimated by injury, Rob Valetini continues to impress for the Brumbies.
With both sides struggling to gain ascendency, Valetini's bruising runs were enormous for the home side as they controlled territory towards the end of the match.
In the past, Valetini has gone missing in big moments.
However, in this game, it was evident to see Valetini's progression as one of the leaders of their pack, making a very strong case for higher honours come July.
2. Pulu’s problem
Force winger Toni Pulu's tackle on Irae Simone will be debated for days after he was issued a red card.
By the letter of the law, referee Nic Berry had no other option but to sent him from the field, however, many have questioned the colour of the card.
Whilst it looked like it would break the Force, they should be credited for their resilience in that second half, actually out-scoring the Brumbies in the ten-minute period after the break.
3. Reimer's wild ride
What a seven days for Luke Reimer!
After spending the majority of 2021 as a body to bash (his words, not ours), Reimer got his chance to shine when he came on for Pete Samu.
In classic Brumby fashion, he took it with both hands, earning the game-sealing penalty that helped the Brumbies kick clear and seal the game.
With Samu struggling with injury, he could be set for a bigger role come next Saturday.
4. Set pieces struggle
For both teams that pride themselves on their set-pieces, they were very sloppy in the dewy conditions.
This was evident especially at line-out time, with both hookers missing the mark throughout the opening half.
The Brumbies are usually guaranteed from five minutes out, however, failed to go close to the line on three occasions in the first 25 minutes.
Whilst it didn't cost them this week, leaving nine points on the board could be crucial against the Reds given the nature of their last two encounters.
5.Dream run ends
After capturing the hearts of the Rugby community, the dream run of the Force in Super Rugby AU has officially come to an end.
Whilst coach Tim Sampson was critical of their inability to attack and 'throw shots' at the Brumbies, he should be proud of the way they pushed the Brumbies until the end.
For a team that was languishing near the bottom of the ladder a month ago, there is plenty of positives coming out of WA despite the result.
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