Brumbies sunk by Wilkinson boot
7th August 2009, 9:30 WST
England 2003 World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson punished the bumbling Brumbies as they lost 20-6 to French club Toulon in the last match of their tour.
Wilkinson, Toulon’s star off-season recruit, kicked four penalties before being replaced in the 59th minute as the Brumbies stumbled to their third loss in four matches in France.
Five eighth Wilkinson’s task was made easier with the Brumbies gifting numerous opportunities as their scrum and lineout malfunctioned at Toulon’s Stade Mayol.
The Brumbies pack gave up an almost unheard of seven tighthead scrums and gave away an additional five free kicks on their own feed.
The visitors managed a 37th minute drop goal through Christian Lealiifano and, despite their possession woes, had an opportunity to level the half-time scores at 6-all with flyhalf Matt Toomua pushing the penalty attempt wide from 35 metres out and in front.
Lealiifano, who covered flyhalf, centre and fullback during the match and was among the Brumbies best, added a penalty goal in the 54th minute.
Toulon’s former NRL star Sonny Bill Willaims did not play in the match.
Replacement fullback Pat McCabe confirmed his appointment as player of the tour with another standout display and made the most of his limited chances in attack.
The Brumbies other tour awards were won by Andrew Smith (best back), captain Stephen Hoiles (best forward) and 18-year-old flanker Colby Faingaa (best newcomer).
Despite the losing record, Brumbies coach Andy Friend said the developmental tour was a valuable learning experience for the players and coaching staff.
“We’re really happy (with the tour overall),”” he said.
“We may have only won one out of four games but it’s put us three months ahead of what we would’ve been if we didn’t come on the tour.
“It proved to be a great chance for the squad to bond, particularly with the younger members.”
AAP
http://www.thewest.com.au/default.as...ntentID=160800
