The Brumbies were given a major scare by the Cats in a pulsating Super 12 encounter at Ellis Park on Saturday night, but they managed to hold on in the dying seconds for a narrow 34-29 win.

The Brumbies led 20-16 at halftime.

The Australians scored four tries to two for a bonus point, but they will certainly have had their hearts in their mouths as the Cats took the game to them throughout and particularly in the closing five minutes.

"I'm proud of the way the guys kept fighting out. Tonight I could look the guys in the eyes in the change-room and have respect," said captain Wikus van Heerden.

"It is disappointing to lose as we were so close but the guys gave their all."

In the end however the Brumbies maintained their march to a play-off spot, while the Cats' losing streak stretches to three.

The Brumbies were far from lucky, but crucial errors at kick-offs handed them two tries.

"Finishing was the difference," admitted van Heerden. Coach Chester Williams was upbeat. "While I'm disappointed in the result, I'm happy for the guys who showed tremendous guts."

One of those was flyhalf Andre Pretorius had a perfect night with the boot - despite carrying a stomach bug into the game - slotting six from six (four penalties and two conversions) for a personal haul of 16 points.

His performance did much to keep his side in the game, while centre Jacque Fourie can be proud of his efforts. For the Brumbies, none was better than diminutive No.10 Matt Giteau.

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