This weekend will be a massive test for both Teams. Can the Rebels show the finals credentials against star-studded opponents? Can the Hurricanes win on the road to entrench themselves as title contenders?
Both teams sit mid-table in the Australasian conference. The Hurricanes, with more bonus points, sit in the wildcard position. The Rebels, with a tough start to the season, will seek to take the wildcard from the Hurricanes. Suffice to say, this match can have a fair impact on the finals series.
The Rebels enjoyed a well-deserved (and overdue) week off after a gruelling travel schedule. The last win, against a weakened ‘Tahs outfit, was a tale of two halves. In the first half, they looked in total control, scoring 21 points. The second half; well let’s say they hung on for first win in Sydney. In the process, they regained the Weary-Dunlop Shield.
The Hurricanes were in complete control against a disappointing Jaguares outfit. The star-studded backline ran rings around their opponents, who simply had no answers. In an ominous sign, Julian Savea returned to form with a hat-trick. The win builds on their dominant form against the Kings and Force, where the scored two big wins.
Key matchups
Coles v Hanson
I have little doubt that Coles would relish the chance to paint a “1” next to the “2” on his back. Even for a modern-day Hooker, he has an amazing presence across the field. Besides all the set-piece stuff, which he does well, he played like another loose forward against the Jaguares last week. As the incumbent All Black Hooker, he is a man who should never be taken lightly.
However, I can think of one man up for the challenge – James Hanson. Chibba has relished the move to Melbourne and is playing in career best form. The set-piece work is wonderful (albeit with some wobbles at the lineout), but his breakdown work (both impact and effectiveness) has been the pleasing facet of the season.
Dane Coles – All Black Hooker, Hurricanes backline utility.
Barrett v Debreczei
The All Black master versus the future Wallaby. Despite having an off day with the boot last weekend, Barrett has been travelling nicely this season. His command of the Hurricanes backline, albeit against a stagnant Jaguares backline, showed why they are strong chance to go one better in 2016.
Jack has been a little underdone on past season form, but as Stirzaker comes back into the side he’s looking more composed. This was evident in the first 40 against the ‘Tahs, where he played one of his best 40 minutes of the year. His distribution to the midfield was good, his kicking was spot-on and he scored a Try after sustained Team pressure.
Barrett may have more experience, but don’t discount the super boot of JD.
Jack had a good game against the ‘Tahs, including this Try.
Savea v the Rebels back three.
With Julian ‘the Bus’ Savea finding some form against the Jaguares, it will probably take the entire back three to stop him. There’s something magnificent about watching a lock-sized winger charging down the opposition and scoring tries. Unless, of course, you’re the opposition.
The best chance that Crawford, Hodge and Shipperley have is to starve him of space and tackle low. Savea works best with a paddock in front of him, the Rebels just need to take that away from him. I hope the Rebels don’t choose to kick over his head, as Woodward or Jane will crucify the Rebels on the counter-attack.
Julian celebrates one of his three Tries from last weekend.
Prediction
Even for a passionate Rebels supporter, this is a hard one to pick. The Hurricanes are in fine form and full of confidence. The Rebels have a lot to be happy about too, but I think this will be their toughest match of the season to date.
However, where this is life and blind optimism, there is hope.
If the Rebels play like they did against the ‘Tahs (the first half) for the full eighty minutes, they are in with a good chance. They must starve the Hurricanes back three, they must win the breakdown, and they must have a good serve of luck. With the Rebel Army behind them, I believe they can beat the Hurricanes in a close one.
Rebels by 3.
Teams
REBELS (15-1): Reece Hodge, Dom Shipperley, Tamati Ellison, Mitch Inman, Cam Crawford, Jack Debreczeni, Nic Stirzaker (captain), Adam Thomson, Sean McMahon, Jordy Reid, Lopeti Timani, Luke Jones, Laurie Weeks, James Hanson, Toby Smith
Reserves: Pat Leafa, Cruze Ah Nau, Jamie Hagan, Sam Jeffries, Scott Fuglistaller, Ben Meehan, Dan Hawkins, Sefa Naivalu
HURRICANES (15-1): Jason Woodward, Cory Jane, Matt Proctor, Vince Aso, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara, Victor Vito, Ardie Savea, Brad Shields, Michael Fatialofa, Vaea Fifita, Jeff Toomaga-Allen, Dane Coles (c), Reggie Goodes
Reserves: Leni Apisai, Chris Eves, Ben May, Mark Abbott, Tony Lambourn, Jamison Gibson-Park, Otere Black, Ngani Laumape
