McMahon set for first 2017 outing

Thu, May 11, 2017, 9:27 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
The Brumbies have a chance to extend their lead on top of the Australian Conference with a win over the Lions. While the Rebels and Reds are looking to bounce back and the Force travel to Argentina.

Sean McMahon will play his first game of 2017 when the Rebels host the Reds on Saturday night.

McMahon hasn't played game since last year's Wallabies Spring Tour, after off-season ankle surgery and a knee setback curtailed the start to his year.

The flanker will come off the bench against the Reds, one of two changes to the matchday 23, along with the return of Colby Faingaa.

Faingaa was a late withdrawal from the side against the Lions, with a quad concern, but has been cleared for Saturday's Aussie derby.

Rebels coach Tony McGahan said the pair would be a handy boost for the match.

“It’s timely to get back some key personnel with the return of Colby (Fainga’a) and Sean (McMahon) to provide some much-needed experience and depth against a quality Queensland Reds outfit,” he said.

“We know that we let ourselves down against the Lions last weekend with poor execution so our focus this week is to perform the basics otherwise the Reds will punish our mistakes.”

The Rebels host the Reds on Saturday night, kicking off at 7:45pm AEST LIVE on FOX SPORTS and via RUGBY.com.au radio. Tickets at http://www.melbournerebels.com.

TEAM

Melbourne Rebels team to face the Reds

IN: Sean McMahon, Colby Faingaa

OUT: Jackson Garden-Bachop, Esei Hangaana

1. Toby Smith

2. James Hanson

3. Laurie Weeks

4. Steve Cummins

5. Dominic Day

6. Hugh Sinclair

7. Colby Fainga’a (Captain)

8. Amanaki Mafi

9. Ben Meehan

10. Ben Volavola

11. Marika Koroibete

12. Mitch Inman

13. Tom English

14. Sefa Naivalu

15. Reece Hodge

Reserves

16. Siliva Siliva

17. Fereti Sa’aga

18. Tyrel Lomax

19. Culum Retallick

20. Sean McMahon

21. Harrison Goddard

22. Will Miller

23. Jack Maddocks

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