Asteron Life Super Rugby preview: Melbourne Rebels

Mon, Feb 9, 2015, 1:00 AM
AAP
by AAP

Having joined the Super Rugby competition in 2011, the Melbourne Rebels will be looking for their most consistent year yet after finishing 15th in the 2014 season.

The inaugural season of the Buildcorp National Rugby championship identified some young talent in Jack Debreczeni & Sefanaia Naivalu, while the likes of Sean McMahon, Laurie Weeks & Luke Jones all made their Qantas Wallabies debut in the 2014.

Trial Form

Just like 2014, the Melbourne Rebels kicked off their 2015 pre-season with two consecutive victories. An impressive 28-13 victory over the Queensland Reds, and a last gasp 25-24 win over the Highlanders has set the standard for the Rebels who will be looking to improve on their four victories in 2014.

Player to Watch – Sean McMahon

Wallaby no.886, Sean McMahon had a year to remember in 2014. McMahon was named the Asteron Life Super Rugby Rookie of the year, Buildcorp NRC Player of the Year, captain of the Australian U20’s side, bronze medal winner with the Qantas Australian Men’s Rugby Sevens side, as well as debuting for the Qantas Wallabies on their recent Spring Tour.

For a 20 year old, Sean has a wealth of experience and a résumé that represents that. He will be looking to build on an impressive 2014 season in a bid to join the Qantas Wallabies squad for the Rugby World Cup in September.

New Signings

The Melbourne Rebels have been busy in the off-season, adding some depth to their backline after losing New Zealand born sharp shooter Jason Woodward to the Hurricanes. The addition of former Reds backs, Dom Shipperley, Mike Harris & Jonah Placid as well as the never-aging Radike Samo will add some much needed experience to the Rebels.

Opening Match

It doesn’t get much harder than a trip to Christchurch to face title contenders the Crusaders to kick start their season, but the Rebels know that if they can grab a scalp early, their confidence will continue to grow. They showed in 2014 what their best can produce, with victories against the Brumbies, Reds & Force. Consistency is the key!

Membership

With only four days until the 2015 season commences, it isn’t too late to support your team! Sign up and become a Melbourne Rebels member TODAY!

Share
Test backrow battle looms large ahead of QLD-ACT double header in Brisbane
Super Rugby Pacific 2024 TOTW: Looking at the best Australian performers from Round Five
Force bolster lock stocks with signing of former Wallaby Sam Carter
Winless Crusaders could 'spiral uncontrollably': coach