May 2 - The ACT Brumbies have taken the longer route to next weekend's Super Rugby AU Grand Final, but head coach Dan McKellar believes the challenges faced along the way will prepare his players for the tough task they face against the Queensland Reds.

McKellar's side saw off a short-handed Western Force on Saturday with a 21-9 semi-final win following Toni Pulu's first-half red card to set up the clash with Brad Thorn's team at Brisbane Stadium on Saturday.