Waratahs down Brumbies in trial

The Waratahs rounded out their preparations for the Super 14 season with a 15-7 defeat of the Brumbies in a trial match at Viking Park in Canberra on Thursday night.

In a physical encounter, the NSW forward pack - led by Benn Robinson and Dean Mumm in their first matches of 2010 - dominated in the scrums and at the lineouts.

The visitors drew first blood when captain Phil Waugh burrowed over from a ruck on the Brumbies try-line 10 minutes into the match.

But four minutes later the Brumbies hit back as speedster Francis Fainifo attacked from the halfway line before linking with Adam Ashley-Cooper to tie the scores.

Stirling Mortlock converted for a 7-5 lead to the home side.

A Berrick Barnes penalty goal in the 27th minute saw the Waratahs lead 8-7 at the break before former Brumbies Peter Betham and Josh Holmes combined to give NSW what would be a winning 15-7 lead in the 60th minute.

The Waratahs face the Reds in their first-round clash on Saturday February 13 in Brisbane, while the Brumbies meet the Force in Perth on Friday February 12.

Waratahs 15 (Phil Waugh, Josh Holmes tries; Daniel Halangahu conversion, Berrick Barnes penalty goal)
Brumbies 7 (Adam Ashley-Cooper try; Stirling Morltock conversion)