Lolesio vows to repay Brumbies' faith with semi-final surge

Noah Lolesio has made it clear he intends to repay the trust the Brumbies have shown in him as they prepare for their Super Rugby Pacific semi-final clash.

The talented fly-half, who made his debut in 2020, remains one of the pivotal figures in the team’s ambitions to reclaim glory and return to the final.

The 24-year-old playmaker reflected on his journey with the Brumbies and acknowledged how integral the team has been to his development.

“I want to repay the faith,” he stated, referencing the backing he's received from the coaching staff, teammates, and the broader Brumbies system since joining from the Tuggeranong Vikings in 2018.

Lolesio’s words come with added weight as he returns from a back injury that sidelined him during the derby match against the Queensland Reds.

His return ahead of such a crucial fixture has injected renewed energy into the squad, with teammates echoing the sentiment that his presence is vital for the Brumbies’ final hopes.

With the Brumbies currently positioned third on the ladder and just three points behind the leading Chiefs and Crusaders, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

A strong performance in the semi-final would not only secure a place in the final but could also mark their best campaign finish since 2004.

Winger Andy Muirhead shared that Lolesio’s time off the pitch had only sharpened his drive.

“Being off the field has given him a bit more motivation to rip in,” he said, highlighting the positive effect of Lolesio’s comeback on team morale.

Head coach Stephen Larkham reiterated the importance of Lolesio’s playmaking skills and composure, particularly in high-pressure matches.

The Brumbies have consistently relied on Lolesio’s vision and calmness to steer them through tight encounters, and the upcoming semi-final will be no exception.

As the Brumbies face off against a well-drilled opponent, they’re leaning on experienced leaders to set the tone. Muirhead added that the squad is focused on delivering quality rugby at home:

“It doesn’t change our mindset really, we want to be a team that plays good footy at home.”