Blues vs Rebels highlights: Blues hold off Rebels in a high scoring affair

This early Saturday game sees the Rebels playing the Blues from Eden Park in Auckland. Join The Roar from 3:15pm (AEST) for all live scores and commentary on the action.

This an important game tonight for both sides as they look to further their playoff ambitions.

For the visiting Rebels, they currently sit atop the Australian conference and they know an away win here will not only keep them at number one but will allow them to perhaps pull away from their nearest conference rivals, who themselves face tough away fixtures.

The Blues, too, despite being written off by many, will know that after the Hurricanes and Highlanders have suffered setbacks, they are within reaching distance in their own conference. Taking points against another potential wildcard competitor is a must for their season to remain alive.

The Rebels will fancy their chances up front and will look to dominate the Blues in tight. If they can dominate possession along with the set piece they can rob the Blues of the chance of bringing their big ball runners into the match along with a solid territory game plan to eliminate the threats that the Blues have out wide. Execution will be paramount as they will not want to afford the Blues too many counterattack opportunities.

Herein lies the challenge for the Blues, and it’s simple: match the Rebels up front, gain parity and it is difficult to imagine the Rebels can contain an exciting Blues attack.

Some match ups to keep an eye on will be Toby Smith, the Rebels’ loosehead up against Charlie Faumuina of the Blues. A strong performance here from Smith can perhaps catapult him up the pecking order for Wallaby selection against an incumbent All Black in solid form.

The battle of the loose forwards will also be one to watch with the dynamic Rebels trio of Jordy Reid, Seam McMahon and Adam Thomson facing off against the Blues Jerome Kaino, Steven Luatua and Tanerau Latimer. Both sets of loosies appear to be well balanced and in good form leading up to tonight’s contest.

Reece Hodge at centre for the Rebels had a cracking match for his side last week nut has a very different challenge ahead of him here up against George Moala of the Blues in a fascinating battle of contrast, size versus speed.

Join me here live on The Roar and do not forget to leave your comments below in what promises to be a fascinating clash at the Garden of Eden.

Tip – Blues by 12. I can’t see the Rebels being able to hold out against the Blues’ attack

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