Brumbies coach Dan McKellar is confident his players can rise to the occasion as they travel to Queensland to face the Reds.
The Brumbies are looking to complete the sweep over rivals Reds, however, will have to do it without Wallabies Noah Lolesio and Tom Banks.
Lolesio still hasn't recovered from the ankle injury picked up in the round four clash between the two sides.
However, his absemce provided Rod Iona with the perfect chance to step up, producing one of his best performances against the Western Force last week, with McKellar confident he can repeat the effort.
“He was a chance but he wasn’t right for this week,” McKellar told reporters on Lolesio.
“Rob played really well last week so we’re not going to throw Noah out there into a high-intensity game not close to 100%.
“Our plan will be to get him right for next week and we’ll make the decision then.”
Both teams enter with significant injury tolls, with Brad Thorn losing Jock Campbell and Seru Uru following a tough victory over the Waratahs.
McKellar believes that whilst it's natural in a long season, it provides the perfect opportunity for other players to take their chances.
“It provides opportunities for others. Noah was out last week and Rod Iona was one of our best,” McKellar noted
“It’s a collision sport and you go back to games last year and we were debuting guys in Grand Finals. It’s rugby, you have to have good depth in your squad and rotate where you can and ideally at the back end of the season, you can have as many healthy bodies as possible.
“I don’t think any are long term injuries for either team which is pleasing but the reality is you are going to have bumps and bruises and guys missing occasional games throughout the course of the year.”
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Meanwhile, McKellar remains optimistic about getting Banks back in time for Super Round as he underwent minor surgery after a facial fracture.
Like Iona, replacement fullback Jesse Mogg provides a wealth of experience and the outgoing coach backed up to step up in the blockbuster.
“He’s been a really good addition to the group,” he added.
“He brings a lot of experience and a really good kicking game so that was an easy decision.”
