ACT Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham says his side is ready to break the shackles of a NSW Waratahs curse as the club targets its biggest crowd in three years for an Australian rugby derby.
Brumbies officials are keen to capitalise on the club’s attacking masterclass that saw them dismantle the Wellington Hurricanes in a 52‑10 thumping to ignite the Super Rugby season.
It is hoped the seven‑try win and a bitter rivalry with the Waratahs will entice Brumbies supporters back to Canberra Stadium for a bold bid to get 20,000 fans to the game on Friday night.
The match falls on one of the biggest weekends of the year for Canberra sport, with the Raiders to launch their NRL campaign against the Penrith Panthers on Saturday and the Black Opal Stakes race day on Sunday.
But Brumbies chief executive Michael Jones has warned rugby fans to get their tickets early after selling 5000 seats in the 40 minutes before kick‑off against the Hurricanes.
Larkham described his team’s complete performance as one of the best atmosphere's he's experienced in the capital, with the 13,000‑strong crowd lapping up a return to running rugby and the glory years.
The Brumbies will play the Waratahs at 8.40pm this Friday.
At 6.35pm, the Crusaders will face the Blues.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald
