Brumbies brothers eye another famous Lions upset

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FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - International - Wales v Australia - Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, Britain - November 26, 2022 Australias Lachlan Lonergan scores their fourth try Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge/File Photo

REUTERS

MELBOURNE - The Lonergan brothers will look to help the ACT Brumbies pull off another improbable win over the British amp; Irish Lions on Wednesday, 12 years after cheering from the terraces as the Super Rugby team stunned the touring side in Canberra.

Scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan, 27, captains the Brumbies at Canberra Stadium while his 25-year-old brother Lachlan, capped eight times for Australia, starts at hooker against Andy Farrells men.

The Brumbies became the first provincial team to beat the Lions in 16 years when World Cup-winning coach Jake White orchestrated a 14-12 win over Warren Gatlands side in 2013.

I still remember it. I think I was sitting over there somewhere when I was a little fella, Ryan Lonergan told reporters on Tuesday, gesturing at the southern end of Canberra Stadium.

Pretty sure (Lachlan) was probably eating a pie or something.

When we got up over the Lions, (it was) such a memorable moment even as a fan.

So to be able to do it tomorrow as a player (would be) super special and the boys are really excited.

The Brumbies draw pride from their record against the Lions.

In 2001, they came close to beating Graham Henrys side with only a late Matt Dawson conversion lifting the Lions to a 30-28 win.

Stephen