The Melbourne Rebels have named their Match Day 23 for Friday night’s Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Western Force at HBF Stadium.
The Rebels travel to Perth for the second time in five years carrying a wave of confidence following their five-try performance against the Fijian Drua.
Melbourne Rebels Head Coach Kevin Foote has made one change to this week’s side, with Victorian lock, Josh Canham, returning to the starting XV after recovering from a head knock suffered in Round 5.
Canham has been one of the shining lights for the Rebels during the opening half of the season, with the academy graduate forming a strong partnership with Wallabies’ star Matt Philip in the second row.
Canham’s inclusion will see Josh Hill shift to the bench, joining the experienced James Hanson, Cameron Orr, Rhys Van Nek and Sam Wallis as forward replacements, while Joe Powell, Carter Gordon and George Worth complete the Rebels’ 23.
Melbourne Rebels Head Coach Kevin Foote said his side was excited for the opportunity to chase their second consecutive win.
“We’re really excited to be back in action this week and head over to Perth to play the Force on Friday night,” said Foote.
“The break has been good for us and has recharged everyone for the second half of the season.
“We’ve done a lot of good work leading up to this week, with two strong performances against the Waratahs and the Drua, so everyone is really positive and focused on continuing this hard work, staying connected and building on this momentum.
“We’ve only made one change this week with Josh Canham recovering from his concussion and returning to the second row. Josh has really impressed us this season, so we’re happy to welcome him back and confident he’ll do his job and play well on Friday night.”
The Rebels will play the Western Force for the 19th time in Super Rugby competition since 2011, with the Rebels having won 12 matches, including 7 of 9 away matches against their Australian rival.
Friday night’s clash will be the Rebels only away match for the month of April, with our Club playing its next three matches at AAMI Park, including Round 10’s Super Round clash against the Crusaders.
Tickets to all three matches can be purchased here.
The Melbourne Rebels will face the Western Force in Round 8 of Super Rugby Pacific. The game will be shown ad-free, live and on-demand on Stan Sports, kicking off at 5:45 pm AEST or 7:30 pm AWST.
