Whilst the Super Rugby Conference system has it’s detractors, last year it created the almost perfect opportunity for the Melbourne Rebels in 2017. With a top placed finish guaranteeing a place in the Finals, it was a realistic target for the Rebels as the inconsistent performances from the Waratahs and Brumbies paved the way. Despite topping the Conference at one stage, however, they failed to take their chance and secure a first Finals spot for the Franchise.
Tries at a Premium for the Melbourne Rebels in 2017
Whilst the Rebels for a time pushed the two ‘top’ sides in Australian rugby, they suffered due to their inability to convert chances on the field. Missed opportunities hurt their chances of converting form into points on the ladder. The Rebels were the 6th worst try scorers as a team in the 2016 Super Season. Scoring only 46 tries, a figure that saw them only score more than the Blues, Jaguares, Sharks, Kings and Sunwolves. No side can hope to make the Finals with a try scoring capacity such as that.
A Number of Backline Changes for 2017
Possibly with that in mind, Head Coach Tony McGahan along with Rebels recruitment team to bring in a number of exciting prospects in the backs
Marika Koroibete
The stand out name, in particular for those fans with a foot in each code, is rugby league convert Marika Koroibete. He has made the short switch across Gosch’s Paddock from the Melbourne Storm to the Rebels. His potential in the XV man code is certainly something being noticed within Australian rugby after he was fast tracked in the Wallabies November Tests squad. Although an injury ruling him out of the Brisbane Ten’s could effect when he gets to make in his mark in the opening stages of Super Rugby.
Ben Volovola
The 26 year old Fijian international will inject real potency into the Rebels backline in the upcoming Super Rugby season. Volovola has had stints with both the Waratahs and Crusaders but struggled for game time at both, which ultimately has led to him not truly living up to the potential that he possesses. After four starts out of four at the 2015 Rugby World Cup for Fiji, he has added the experience needed to compliment the dynamic running game so often associated with Fijian players. His battle for the number 10 shirt with Jack Dbreczeni will be an intriguing subplot to the year. Although his addition may see Dbreczeni move to full-back where he performed excellently in the NRC.
Jackson Garden-Bachop
Garden-Bachop will be another player contending with Volovola and Debreczeni for that five-eigth position with the Rebels. With limited options in his hometown of Wellington with Beauden Barrett firmly in possession of the number ten jersey, he has been forced to look elsewhere to progress. After excelling for the Lions at the Mitre 10 Cup level, the 22 year old holds plenty of potential for the Rebels to develop.
Kentaro Kodama
As a member of the inaugural Sunwolves franchise last season, Kodama struggled for consistency alongside his teammates. He has shown what he is capable of though on International duty with Japan as he made an incredible debut scoring five tries against Korea. Although not a household name in Australia, Kodama could well make a big impact at the Rebels.
Ah-Mu Tuimalealiifano
For the Rebels to prosper in Melbourne they need to continue exactly what they are doing and that is developing local talent. The mix of local talent and marquee signings will provide a sustainable backdrop for the franchise. Ah-Mu Tuimalealiifano is the latest player to rise through the Victorian rugby system via his club Harlequins and the Melbourne Rising. His impact for the Rising has seen him rewarded with a place in the Rebels Super Rugby squad and is certainly a player fans should be watching for.
Consistency is Key
The Melbourne Rebels in 2017 will need consistent performances if they are to achieve the Holy Grail of a first Finals place. With the Waratahs and Brumbies looking to recover from disappointing 2016’s they are clearly a major hurdle to their hopes. Whilst the Force and Reds may well have their own say on the Australian Conference as they appear rejuvenated after dismal displays in recent seasons. The Rebels have a huge task on their hands but have the potential to make this their year.
“Main Photo Credit”
