The Melbourne Rebels have wrapped up preparations for their tour of Japan in style, recording an impressive 35-17 trial victory over the Brumbies at Greenfield Park, Albury today.
In challenging conditions, the visitors started the game strong, with emerging hooker Theo Fourie scoring one of the Rebels three first half tries.
In the second half, a line-breaking run from Tamati Ioane set up Monty Ioane’s first try in Rebels’ colours, before David Vaihu crashed over to secure the result.
Leafi Talataina capped off a whirlwind week by playing his first minutes with the Rebels senior squad just four days after starring for the Australian Under-18’s and Schools program in Canberra.
“It was great to be out there with the boys and have that first run around,” said Talataina.
“It was a step up in terms of physicality and the speed of play, but I was happy with my performance, and it’s only made me hungrier.
“It’s obviously been a big few weeks in terms of the turnaround with Sunday’s game and the academy, and packing down my role and acquiring as much knowledge as I could to prepare myself for this game.
“It was a surreal day and something that just motivates me even more now – not just for Super Rugby, but beyond that.
"I’m grateful for the opportunity and all the support.”
