3 minute read
Rob Valetini prepares for a rare on-field meeting with his brother as the Brumbies chase a crucial win over the Drua.
Beating the Fijian Drua would strengthen the ACT Brumbies' push for a top-two finish, but for Rob Valetini the occasion carries added meaning.
The Brumbies back-rower is set to face his younger brother, Kemu Valetini, for the first time this season when the sides meet on Saturday night. Kemu, named on the Drua bench, missed their round five clash, where the Drua claimed a 42-27 win.
That defeat also denied Rob a winning result in his 100th Super Rugby Pacific appearance.
Family members are expected to travel from Melbourne to Canberra, adding to the personal significance of the fixture.
Valetini said the experience of lining up against his sibling remains special, noting the moment never loses its impact despite previous meetings.
The Brumbies enter the match with clear stakes. They sit three points behind the second-placed Chiefs on 27 in a tightly packed ladder, making victory important to maintain their finals positioning.
Confidence comes from a 14-10 win over the Highlanders last round, a performance coach Stephen Larkham described as the side's best defensive display this season.
Valetini highlighted defence as a key focus again, pointing to the Drua's attacking style and physicality in one-on-one situations.
The Brumbies receive a boost with the return of Wallabies fullback Tom Wright from an ACL injury. However, they will be without back-rower Charlie Cale, who has been ruled out with a shoulder issue sustained last week.
Larkham emphasised the importance of consistency as the season progresses, noting that securing a top-two finish significantly improves the pathway through the finals.