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The only Australian derby of Round 15 takes place tonight at AAMI Park as the Rebels host the Waratahs. Join us here from 7.40pm AEST for the live blog and score updates.
After a week of Wallaby squad squabbling it is nice to get back to the rugby and this match should provide lots of interesting viewing.
It will also allow the punters and selectors to look at those who missed selection and evaluate their worthiness for one of the ‘Wallaby Six Pack’ (as christened by Brett McKay) spots to be announced on June 11.
The hosts are on a high, coming off their first ever win over a South African team as they toppled the Stormers last week.
The win eased the pressure on head coach Damien Hill and Scott Higginbotham and his boys can give him some more breathing room with another upset win this week.
There is no doubt however that the Rebels have benefitted from the rub of the green from the TMO in recent weeks.
Their close losses and even their win were all marred by controversial decisions to award the Rebels tries and deny the opposition points.
For all the attractive rugby they have played, and as much as Australians love an underdog, surely their luck must run out at some point, the Waratahs will be hoping it is tonight.
The other key point for the Rebels is whether or not newly named Wallaby flyhalf James O’Connor will line up to start.
Early in the week he said he was feeling good but that a decision wouldn’t be made until closer to the game. If he does play, he can be sure all eyes will be on his performance.
Rebels fans will also be keen to see if their locks, who have so long been overlooked by the national coach, will stand up and hit back against the more favoured Waratah second row.
The visitors meanwhile, are on a roll, an ominous roll. The Waratahs have won their last three matches in a row and are making a late charge for the finals.
Apart from playing some truly good rugby they are also building belief, in themselves and in their long-suffering fans.
With four games to go the Waratahs can ensure a finals berth by winning them all, and even dropping one match puts them on the cusp of a wildcard spot.
Add to that the fact that the Waratahs have won the last three fixtures between these two teams and it is a very handy spot to be in.
As always eyes will be on Israel Folau but sharper rugby minds will be looking at the performance of Berrick Barnes (whether he starts or comes off the bench) who was selected off the back of three part-matches this season; and Benn Robinson who tends to slacken off when he is under no pressure (and having secured a Wallaby spot you can be sure the pressure is right off).
The Rebels always have the potential to be blown away in a very one-sided game, hopefully this is a close and entertaining match.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.