1. Scott Sio
Sio was welcomed back into the starting XV just days after signing a three-year contract extension with Australian Rugby, and didn’t disappoint. The Brumbies were all over the Tahs at scrum-time.
2. Stephen Moore
He’s continually getting better with every game, which is hard to believe considering he’s played 151 Super Rugby matches. Another dominant display from the Wallabies skipper, making 51 metres and four tackle busts from his nine runs.
3. Greg Holmes
One of the positives from the Red’s loss to the Force was their dominance at the set-piece, and in particular, the scrum. Reds veteran Holmes once again led from the front.
4. Luke Jones
It’s hard to believe that Jones will be heading to France next season, but for now the young Rebels lock is in fine form, taking the lead in the Rebels forward pack.
5. Adam Coleman
Following a breakout season in 2015, Adam Coleman is building a formidable partnership with fellow lock Steve Mafi and showed that again in Saturday night.
6. Scott Fardy
The unsung hero of the Wallabies backrow during the Rugby World Cup has continued his form into the Super Rugby season. Another workman-like performance from the bearded Brumby.
7. Sean McMahon
Has taken on the Rebels captaincy in the absence of Nic Stirzaker and continues to lead from the front. Finished the match with a game-high 17 tackles, six more than any other player.
8. Ita Vaea
Vaea was a defensive beast all night for the Brumbies, throwing his 119kg frame all over the ground. His work ethic is impressive for such a big lad.
9. Ben Meehan
Relishing the opportunity to wear the Rebels number nine jersey, crossing the line for two second half tries.
10. Jono Lance
Back-to-back Man of the Match performances for the Force, Jono Lance led his side to victory kicking 5 from 5 and setting up Luke Morahan for the only try of the match in the 80th minute. Amazingly Lance has scored 36 of the Force’s 41 points in 2016.
11. Joe Tomane
A threat all night against the Waratahs. Tomane finished the night with a game high 85 run metres, beating five defenders and a try. He also set up Ah Wong for the match winning try in the 79th minute.
12. Mitch Inman
Renowned for his powerful running, Mitch Inman was busy as always for the Melbourne Rebels. 12 carries and 11 tackles for the big centre.
13. Tevita Kuridrani
Surprisingly quiet in round one, Tevita Kuridrani made up for it on Friday night. 70 run metres from his 16 carries and some HUGE hits in defence, most noticeably his massive tackle on Kurtley Beale.
14. Henry Speight
It’s amazing to think that six of the seven Brumbies starting backs are international players and Speight had another strong game among the starry backline. 72 run metres and two tackles busts from nine carries, meant it was a busy night out for the Fijian-born flyer.
15. Israel Folau
Isn’t it great seeing Israel Folau back in full flight!? The only Waratah to make more than 50 run metes, Folau was continually dangerous in attack.
