Scone Brumbies gearing up for vital clash with Quirindi Lions at Sir Owen Glenn Rugby Park

Reserve Grade had the earlier starting time of 9am and the first half of the game was a competitive contest.

The score blew out in favour of Tamworth in the second half but it was not for lack of trying, with the Brumbies remaining competitive in the contest right up to the final whistle.

The first half of First Grade was a seesawing contest, with both sides taking the lead at different stages of the half.

Tries to Doug McKillop and Harry Morrow in the first half saw the Brumbies go into the half time break trailing the reigning premiers 21 - 12.

There was not much separating the two teams at the break and the Brumbies were confident of toppling their highly rated opposition with a continued of their first half performance.

The coaches had put a great emphasis on the Brumbies' second half performances during the week but unfortunately the boys could not manage to be the first to score in the second half and heads started to drop shortly thereafter.

The Brumbies could not hold onto their own ball and again fell victim to the referee's whistle in the early stages of the second half, as they gave away too many penalties early and allowed the Pirates to get a roll on and quickly accumulate points on the scoreboard.

Before long, the Pirates were out to an unassailable lead.

The Brumbies showed some of their spirit late in the game however, scoring two tries in the second half to bring the final score back to 49 - 24.

The first try, a nice "show and go" from fly half Jack Thomas and the second, a well worked move from the set piece which saw Harry Morrow cross for his second try of the game and in the process stretch his lead as the Brumbies' top try scorer for the season.

The coaches' points were given to Jordan Albury, Daniel Burt and Harry Morrow whilst player's player was awarded to Doug McKillop.

Special mentions should also go to Sam Casson and Cam Boyle who were put their bodies on the line for the cause, as well as Paul McTaggart who backed up from Reserve Grade and played a majority minutes in First Grade - three courageous performances.

This Saturday the Brumbies wish to invite their supporters to Sir Owen Glenn Rugby Park for the first themed home game of the season, "Family Day".

The Brumbies are looking to set their season back on track and will need all the support they can gather when taking on the in-form Quirindi Lions.

Gates open at 12.00pm, Reserve Grade kick off at 1.30 pm and First Grade kick off at 3.15pm.