GIO STADIUM, CANBERRA, JUNE 2nd, 2023
GIO Stadium in Canberra will witness a thrilling encounter on June 2nd as the Brumbies face off against the Melbourne Rebels in a decisive Super Rugby Pacific clash. With the Brumbies currently holding fourth place on the table, four points ahead of the Hurricanes, every point matters as they strive to secure their spot. However, a defeat could potentially drop them down the ladder, adding immense pressure to this encounter.
Despite their respectable position, the Brumbies find themselves without a significant advantage in terms of points difference. Their +65 differential means they can’t afford to underestimate any team in contention. A victory against the Rebels would guarantee them a coveted home quarter-final, a prospect they are eagerly chasing.
After a remarkable start to the season, the Canberra-based side has encountered difficulties in recent matches, suffering two consecutive defeats. As they face the Rebels, they must be cautious of their opponents, who are also battling for a playoff berth. The Rebels, currently second-to-last on the table with 21 points, haven’t given up on their aspirations of a top-eight finish. To achieve this, they must defeat the Brumbies and hope for losses from the Force, Highlanders, and Drua.
Throughout the season, the Melbourne Rebels have experienced their fair share of near misses, finding themselves on the wrong side of closely contested encounters. However, in the final round, they understand that nothing short of a triumph will suffice. In their previous outing, they delivered a resounding victory against the Western Force, defying expectations of a close contest. They will seek to replicate that performance, relying on their collective strength and determination.
Fans can anticipate a high-stakes clash filled with intensity and passion. The Brumbies and the Melbourne Rebels are primed to leave it all on the field, fueled by their desire for playoff qualification. Watch closely as these two teams battle for victory, each aiming to make their mark and secure their spot in the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs.
REBELS (1-15): Matt Gibbon, Jordan Uelese, Sam Talakai, Josh Canham, Matt Philip, Josh Kemeny, Brad Wilkin (c), Richard Hardwick, Ryan Louwrens, Carter Gordon, Monty Ioane, Nick Jooste, Reece Hodge, Lachie Anderson, Andrew Kellaway
RESERVES: Alex Mafi, Isaac Aedo Kailea, Pone Fa’amausili, Trevor Hosea, Vaiolini Ekuasi, James Tuttle, Stacey Ili, Joe Pincus
BRUMBIES (1-15): Fred Kaihea, Connal McInerney, Sefo Kautai, Nick Frost, Cadeyrn Neville, Tom Hooper, Jahrome Brown, Rob Valetini, Nic White (c), Jack Debreczeni, Corey Toole, Ollie Sapsford, Len Ikitau, Andy Muirhead, Tom Wright
RESERVES: Billy Pollard, Blake Schoupp, Rhys Van Nek, Pete Samu, Luke Reimer, Ryan Lonergan, Tamati Tua, Jesse Mogg
Referee: Angus Gardner
Assistant Referees: Damon Murphy, Matt Kellahan
Brumbies have won their last 4 matches against the Rebels.
Brumbies beat the Rebels by 7 points in their last encounter.
Brumbies have lost their last 2 matches.
Rebels have lost 3 of their last 4 matches.
PREDICTION
The Brumbies are clear favourites but the Rebels have shown they are dangerous when they turn it on. With the Brumbies having lost their last two games, the Rebels will have some confidence.
The Brumbies will rise again to end the Rebels’ season at home this week, and secure fourth and a home quarterfinal against the Hurricanes. Brumbies by 9 points.
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