Michael Wells put in a great shift tonight on the blindside for Melbourne. Where he was blessed by a brilliant fire off. Thanks to the backline who took the pressure off his forward line. As well as the build up defense that gave themselves chances.
The word chances mean a lot of control every time they have the ball. Having benefited a great offload via the scrummaging. And used these Waratahs weaknesses to get the Rebels side ahead.
His team may have suffered lost penalties along the way. Which did see two red cards. But it does not mean that the Rebels would go down. Instead they never gave up with the build up base. As well as the opportunities given with the ball. And used it wisely to get maximum points on the board. Before they hold off till the end.
Matt Toomua
He was a great contributor to the Rebels attack tonight. Where Matt was involved a lot more going forward. Such as working closely with Joe Powell via the offload. As well as a series of penalty kicks into goal.
Especially within a few minutes into the first half. Thanks to a brilliant break from Frank Lomani. Got his forwards hold down Jack Maddocks alone. Before Matt unleashed that cross kick towards the short left side. And saw Stacey Ili collect that early touch points on the board.
It goes to show that the Rebels plan very well. Every time they were given plenty of chances with the ball. And never wasted a single minute of it. The only thing that lets them down is the ill-discipline. Which is something he is not happy about. Having seen two of his players received a straight red. But in the end he accepts the win & the derby cup v Waratahs. Despite not being accepted into the finals this year.
Lalakai Foketi
This man was so good in that Waratahs midfield tonight. Where he assisted two early tries in the first half. In which helped them stay in the game towards half-time.
He credits the Rebels weaknesses via the ill-discipline. Especially when they were patient going forward. Thanks to the influential skipper at half-back from Jake Gordon. It allowed some time to warm up and wait for the ball. Before Foketi has great control. And found his man via a close distance to help complete the TRY.
So much pace and physicality through the channels. Having seen him break past the Rebels chain via some space. Which allows the communication to flow. But unfortunately his side still fall short. After a couple of lost penalties punished against them. And that prevented them from crossing the finish line first in the end. It has been a tough 2021 Super Rugby AU for this side. But they better move on towards the Trans-Tasman leg.
