The ACT Brumbies Women showed flashes of attacking spark in a high-tempo trial clash on Sunday, but the Queensland Reds proved too clinical in a 52–12 win at Brumbies HQ.
Sunday’s clash at Brumbies HQ marked the first of three pre-season hit-outs for the ACT side ahead of the 2026 campaign. The ACT side entered the match with a refreshed squad featuring a mix of experience and new talent. Five Wallaroos swapped gold for the blue‑and‑white jersey, while a promising crop of up-and-comers stepped into the line‑up as they push for selection ahead of the upcoming season.
Recent Wallaroo debutant, Ella Ryan sparked the opening attack, slicing through the Reds’ line and putting Anne Fernandez De Corres and Merania Paraone into space. Camping deep inside the Reds’ 22, the Brumbies were held up twice over the line. A lineout deep in the corner gave the Brumbies the perfect platform, with a well-drilled maul driving Merania Paraone over for the opening try.
Queensland hit back immediately, marching downfield and turning a lineout opportunity into points for Eva Karpani. Back-to-back Reds tries had the Brumbies reeling but they returned to their most reliable platform — another attacking lineout. Persistent pressure lead to a Reds offside infringement, forcing the ref to send prop Karpani to the bin for 10 minutes. Ryan capitalised immediately, diving over for a converted try to put the Brumbies ahead 12–10.
Queensland responded clinically before halftime, exposing space out wide and crossing twice more to take a 22–12 lead into the break.
Brumbies Head Coach James Erwin rang the changes in the second half and the impact players entered the contest determined to make their presence felt. Prop Sonrae Lui added power through the middle, and big tackles from Chioma Enyi slowed the Reds momentum.
Despite the Brumbies’ improved defensive intent, Queensland made the most of field position and turnover ball to steadily extend the margin throughout the second half.
The Reds continued to push the ball wide, but the Brumbies dug in, producing a superb gang tackle to bundle Piper Flynn into touch for a try‑saver. Enyi remained a standout, combining well with replacement halves Georgia Haynes and Sharlize Campbell to bash the Reds’ line.
The Brumbies mounted late attacking pressure, but the final whistle blew with the score 12 - 52.
The Brumbies now turn their attention to the remaining two trial fixtures ahead of the season opener in June, beginning with next weekend’s clash against the Force. With combinations continuing to develop and new faces gaining valuable minutes, the squad will look to build momentum heading into the 2026 Swyftx Super Rugby Women’s season.
