The Melbourne Rebels have continued their winning form over the Waratahs on Friday night at AAMI Park.
It had been over a year since the home side had actually played at home, however aside from keeping the Waratahs 2021 season winless, here's what else we learnt:
1. Hardwick the Hardman
2021 is Super Rugby AU’s battle of the No.7s, and Hardwick has again staked his claim. Leading the Rebels on the stats sheet in tackles and turnovers, he’s a defensive machine who had the Waratahs running in the opposite direction. While his time as a Wallaby was just a blink in 2017, he’s bound to be on Dave Rennie’s radar in 2021.
2. Practise makes perfect
Perfection takes time. The Waratahs are a young and inexperienced team. However, there were glimpses of the future side throughout the game. The Waratahs crossed twice when the Rebels let up, showing they have the potential. It will be a long road home for the Waratahs, but they stuck to their game plan and will be all the better for it.
3. Sevens Heaven
Lachie Anderson narrowly missed out in the RUGBY.com.au team of the week the past few rounds. However, that try tonight has secured his position. Working off the ball, his ability to hide in space and follow play saw him sweep round the back of the Rebels attack and provide support options.
There’s no doubt a plane ticket to Tokyo has his name on it if he continues with these standout performances.
4. Rebels are a Championship contender
They gave both the Reds and Brumbies a run for their money in their opening two matches before a win in Perth last weekend a convincing victory over the Waratahs tonight. The Rebels are genuine contenders in 2021, and as more players return from the injury ward, they’ll stand a real chance at a maiden finals berth.
5. Welcome back, Jordan
After a long-awaited return, a burn-boy dives over! Coming back from injury via the bench, Wallabies hooker Jordan Uelese showed his home crowd what they missed out on in 2020. Off the back of the rolling maul, the attacking lineout is becoming a regular occurrence in Super Rugby AU, and Uelese will be the one to steer the ship for the Rebels.
READ MORE:
WINLESS WARATAHS: Rebels claim first home victory
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