The Rising were a successful disappointment in 2014. Having won all 8 round games with a bonus point in each (scoring 3 or more tries than their opponents), they could not score any more competition points, so it was such a let-down to lose the semi-final to Perth Spirit. Looking back, a loss or two during the home and away season would have kept them (and us) a bit more grounded.
Don't get me wrong, it was an absolute pleasure to watch a Melbourne team win and win so well. Personally I felt there was too much reliance on the Rebels players, so when several became unavailable due to Wallaby selection, the Dewar Shield players were less prepared and ready for the step-up.
So, how do I think the Rising will go in 2015? The squad, while still having 16 Rebels, doesn't look as strong. I think we'll miss PAE, Stirzy, Mitch and #SuperSefa (who was only a Dewar Shield player last year), but the squad is still very decent and I think a year on the Dewar Shield representatives, especially the returning ones, have a better idea of what is required and are more ready for the higher intensity. Hopefully.
I feel wins will be harder to come by, but that may not be a bad thing. It seemed to me last year that winning was a much higher priority than developing local talent. Don't get me wrong, I love the winning, but we should also be taking the opportunity to bring through some Victorians.
Can't wait - I loved the NRC last year and look travelling to several home and away games.
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