The Brumbies opened their pre-season campaign with a comprehensive 59-0 victory over the Australian Barbarians in Canberra on Saturday.

The Brumbies outsmarted the invitational outfit in every facet of the game and scored nine tries on their way to an impressive win.

In a match played across 20-minute quarters, the Brumbies looked in control from the get-go. The hosts opened up a 26-0 lead before half-time with tries by Andrew Muirhead, Chris Alcock, Aidan Toua and Ben Alexander.

Flyhalf Wharenui Hawera, who played an influential role in the Brumbies’ attack, succeeded with three of his four conversion attempts.

Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham made a raft of changes at the break, but it didn’t have any impact on his team’s cohesion.

However, their defence was tested after being reduced to 14 men when flank Jordan Smiler was yellow-carded for a late tackle. The Barbarians managed to string a couple of phases together, but the Brumbies withstood the onslaught without conceding any points.

From there on, the hosts ran their opponents ragged. After being awarded a penalty try, there were further scores from Ben Hayne, Jamie Kotz and a brace by Jordan Jackson-Hope to complete the rout.

Brumbies – Tries: Andrew Muirhead, Chris Alcock, Aidan Toua, Josh Mann-Rea, penalty try, Jordan Jackson Hope (2), Ben Hyne, Jamie Kotz. Conversions: Wharenui Hawera (3), Isaac Thompson (2), Henry Speight, automatic conversion.

Photo: Brumbies Rugby