ACT has shocked the defending champion Blues with a thrilling 44-27 victory in their Super 12 opener at Canberra Stadium.

The Brumbies had no friends amongst the tippers pre-game, but powered home in the second half for a five tries to three margin.

Locked at 20-all at half-time, Stephen Larkham took just three minutes after the resumption to put ACT on the right track.

Flying high over Doug Howlett, Latham grabbed the ball and crashed down to give the home side the lead.

The Brumbies then lifted a gear and even a 55th minute try to Keven Mealamu that levelled the game at 27-all couldn't stop the second half Brumbies' juggernaut.

Playing without the sin-binned George Smith, the Brumbies turned the game with a courageous ten minute period where they dominated the Blues at the ruck, and the rewards when they were back to 15 were almost instant.

Jeremy Paul backed up a flying Joe Roff in the 68th minute to regain the lead 34-27, and they put the game away just three minutes later.

Trying to run the ball off their own line, Rupeni Caucaunibuca threw and ill-advised pass to avoid going over the sideline.

Matt Giteau was the grateful recipient and he raced away to score and start the early celebrations for the Brumbies.

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