Among Melbourne Rebels’ Super Rugby losses, their heavy defeat at the hands of the Western Force is the one that really jars.
The Rebels went into the round-two clash riding high but came home from Perth with their tails between their legs after a 32-7 defeat on the back of their worst performance of the season.
Ahead of their Good Friday night re-match at AAMI Park, Melbourne skipper Scott Higginbotham said they wanted to make amends and put to an end the Force’s five-game winning run.
“It was very disappointing, especially coming off a great win to go into such an embarrassing loss,” he said.
“It does bug you.”
While the unheralded Force have been flying the Rebels are coming off yet another close loss, this time to champions the Chiefs.
Higginbotham said he couldn’t help but be impressed by their opponents’ run.
“It’s fantastic to see another side besides or the Reds doing so well,” he said.
“They’ve surprised me.
“It’s going to be a tough game but we want to break that winning streak.”
Lock Cadeyrn Neville is the only change to the Rebels starting line-up, replacing Hugh Pyle.
“Cadeyrn’s been working hard behind the scenes the last few weeks and off the bench and deserves the opportunity to play,” said coach Tony McGahan.
“Hugh’s been fantastic for us, but he’s had a big workload and is carrying a few niggles so it will be great for him to get a little rest and come off the bench this week.”
Flanker Scott Fuglistaller has recovered from a shoulder knock to take his place in the starting side.
The Western Force are set to be without halfback Alby Mathewson (ankle) and winger Luke Morahan (hamstring) with their team still to be confirmed.
The Rebels are aiming to raise $50,000 for the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal at the game.
Rebels: Jason Woodward, Male Sau, Tamati Ellison, Mitch Inman, Tom English, Bryce Hegarty, Nic Stirzaker, Scott Higginbotham (c), Scott Fuglistaller, Colby Fainga’a, Luke Jones, Cadeyrn Neville, Laurie Weeks, Shota Horie, Toby Smith. Reserves: Pat Leafa, Cruze Ah-Nau, Paul Alo-Emilie, Hugh Pyle, Sean McMahon, Luke Burgess, Tom Kingston, Angus Roberts.
