FRIDAY, 15th MARCH, 2024, AAMI PARK ,MELBOURNE,AUSTRALIA
Rebels Return Home Victorious
Returning home with a second victory, the Rebels enter Friday night’s clash with a mostly unchanged line-up with Kevin Foote turning to Taniela Tupou to lead the scrum in his first match against his former side. Playing an instrumental role in turning the tide against Moana last week, Tupou will be expected to make an impact against an impressive Reds forward pack early. Meanwhile, there’s been another change in the backline with Andrew Kellaway pushed to fullback and Glen Vaihu returning to the wing.
Kiss Shuffles Reds Lineup
Les Kiss, the counterpart of the Reds, has been compelled to make numerous alterations. Sef Fa’agese received a four-week ban, resulting in Peni Ravai assuming the starting position. Additionally, following his impressive performance against the Chiefs last week, Kiss has entrusted Harry McLaughlin-Phillips with guiding the backline. In a boost, Jordan Petaia will make his return from concussion via the bench while Isaac Henry retains his starting role at inside centre.
Aussie Derby Showdown
This matchup has the potential to be the highlight of the Australian derby season, with a possibility of a close finish.
Team line-ups
Rebels
Andrew Kellaway, Lachie Anderson, Filipo Daugunu, David Feliuai, Glen Vaihu, Carter Gordon, Ryan Louwrens, Rob Leota, Vaiolini Ekuasi, Josh Kemeny, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Josh Canham, Taniela Tupou, Jordan Uelese, Matt Gibbon.
Reserves. Ethan Dobbins, Isaac Kailea, Sam Talakai, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Maciu Nabolakasi, Angelo Smith, Jake Strachan, James Tuttle.
Reds
Jock Campbell, Suliasi Vunivalu, Josh Flook, Isaac Henry, Mac Grealy, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Tate McDermott, Harry Wilson, Fraser McReight, Liam Wright, Ryan Smith, Seru Uru, Zane Nonggorr, Matt Faessler, Peni Ravai.
Reserves. Josh Nasser, George Blake, Jefferey Toomaga-Allen, Cormac Daly, John Bryant, Kalanai Thomas, Tom Lynagh, Jordan Petaia.
PREDICTION
The way the Reds played against the Chiefs last week was a positive sign so I am going to stick with them. I think they can win by 8-9 points. Vunivalu is starting to show why the Reds chased him and the forwards have looked so good on attack and defence.
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