Stepping up from their 30-point turnaround win over the Reds to get the benefits of a better start is occupying the Hurricanes' minds ahead of Sunday's Super Rugby Pacific game with the Brumbies in Canberra.

Controlling discipline would go a long way towards helping make them competitive from kick-off.

Assistant coach Tyler Bleyendaal said frustrations with discipline, including getting offside at rucks, had not helped their start.

"It didn't give us the momentum early. We had a focus on getting possession early and trying to build some momentum that way. 

"Once we managed to hold the ball, we got a few penalties and applied pressure through possession. That helped us flip that momentum.

"From there we managed to build the scoreboard," he said.

When down 0-17, it had been pleasing to see the Hurricanes keep their composure, absorb the pressure, and achieve a good win at the end. 

Two tries before halftime had been invaluable, allowing them to build their second-half performance.

"To keep them scoreless then was satisfying because it has been evident they are a good attacking threat.

"We do back our skills and fitness at the back end of games. It would just be nice if the way we play and finish some of these matches if we could start like that as well, but that's not always the case.

"We have shown the character and mindset to stay in those battles and finish well.

Traditionally the Brumbies have been one of the better forward packs in Australia, and they were devastating with their rolling lineout maul close to the goal-line.

The Brumbies were well-drilled with excellent structures both in attack and defence and were a big, physical team. 

"We have to be better early on in the game. We have to match them physically. We're expecting a pretty tough challenge.

"For us, it's going to be doing our little things well, and consistently, and that's going to build that foundation for us. Hopefully, we see some of that attacking rugby," he said.

They had a dangerous backline and were keen to counterattack off any kicks they received.

"It's going to be a priority for us to try and stifle that attack. Their backs get to strike off a pretty strong foundation from some good set-piece and phase play. It will be a big defence emphasis for us to try and stop their momentum, and hopefully turn the ball over," he said.

"We're under no illusions, there's going to be some tough games in this Australian end of the competition but it was a good performance for us and we're pretty happy about that," he said.