The Melbourne Rebels have brought home the Weary Dunlop Shield with a tough 27 – 21 win at Allianz Stadium against the NSW Waratahs.
A tight game through the score line, the Rebels' forwards again proved the difference, with their strong scrum and carrying allowing them to control the game even when behind.
Starting winger Darby Lancaster looked dangerous on the edge and proved he had what it takes to take his game to the next level, competing at Super at every moment. The competitor had a highlight of carries, a turnover, a try assist and a try to bring the Rebels the lead just when they needed it.
The late scratching of Rebels and Wallabies flanker Josh Kemeny gave opportunity for the starting 7 jersey to go to recent debutant Maciu Nabolakasi.
After a scoreless 22-minute period, the first points came from a Ryan Louwrens chip, following an opportunistic quick tap that put half of the Waratahs defence offside. Regathering the ball Louwrens found winger Lachie Anderson with a flick pass to open the scoring.
Taking the opportunities when they could, a penalty to Gordon’s boot gave the Rebels the advantage before half time, heading to the sheds ahead 10-7.
The Rebels kept their ascendency through the scrum, with front row replacements ensuring the pressure never let up and allowed for the Rebels to get the late game under control.
With the Waratahs returning a try in the 59th minute, the Rebels looked to their impact players to push the opposition around the park. A try in the corner to Lancaster, after a well-managed lineout maul from Alex Mafi resulted in the away team taking back the lead.
Shortly after, Taniela Tupou dived over the line to extend the Rebels’ lead beyond a converted try and provide some well-earned scoreboard space.
With the game well and truly on the edge, the Rebels maintained composure in attack, setting up starting centre Filipo Daugunu to close out the game, on the end of a firing pass from winger Darby Lancaster.
The Rebels head back home for their next game against the Fiji Drua on April 6 at AAMI Park, for Round 7 of Super Rugby Pacific.
Tries: Anderson, Lancaster, Tupou, Daugunu
Cons: Gordon 2/4
Pens: Gordon 1/1
Tries: Swinton, Gleeson, Grant
Cons: Edmed 3/3
