History was made under the Friday night lights at GIO Stadium, as the ACT Brumbies and Chiefs played out a fierce contest in front of a crowd that came for more than just rugby.
A crowd that came to honour James Slipper.
In a moment that will live long in Super Rugby history, Slipper became the competition’s most-capped player, running out for his 203rd game. Both teams formed a guard of honour, before Slipper walked through holding his two young daughters. An emotional scene that brought the stadium to its feet and, for many, tears to their eyes. With fans embracing the “Slippers for Slipper” campaign, the stands were filled with supporters proudly wearing slippers in tribute.
The emotion quickly gave way to intensity. The Brumbies struck early, with Hudson Creighton flying over in the opening five minutes, setting the tone for a side clearly determined to rise to the occasion. The crowd was loud, relentless, and firmly behind their team.
Defensively, the Brumbies were immense, absorbing wave after wave of Chiefs pressure, forcing errors and disrupting momentum. However, the Chiefs responded, with Liam Coombes-Fabling crossing twice in quick succession to give his team a 14–7 lead at the break.
The message was clear as the Brumbies returned for the second half. They weren’t going down without a fight.
Shortly after, in the 52nd minute, Slipper left the field to a standing ovation, the crowd rising in appreciation of a remarkable career and a historic milestone.
After this, the Chiefs struck first through Damian McKenzie, but the Brumbies refused to back down. Ryan Lonergan ignited the fightback in the 60th minute, diving over to swing momentum. Charlie Cale followed soon after, before Declan Meredith powered across in the 69th minute to put the Brumbies in the lead for the first time this game.
The final say belonged to Corey Toole, who after missing recent games due to niggles, returned in style, running the length of the field in a magical 79th minute try to secure the Brumbies win. Ensuring that James Slipper’s historic night ended in unforgettable fashion.
Slipper was officially commemorated post-match with a special on-field ceremony, capping off a truly memorable night. A tribute video featuring messages from some of his closest teammates and friends played to the crowd, celebrating the man of the moment before Slipper himself took to the stage. In a speech marked by humility and poise, he thanked those who had supported him throughout his journey. Fittingly, fans remained in the stands to witness the occasion, bringing a perfect close to an unforgettable night.
The Brumbies return home again next Friday night to face the NSW Waratahs, kick-off at 7:45pm.
It will be a big afternoon of rugby as the match will be a part of a double-header, with the Wallaroos taking on the Fijiana XV prior, kick-off 4.55pm.
