The Melbourne Rebels are set to go into their crunch Super Rugby clash with the Waratahs without three key backs including winger Tom English whose season could be over.
The Rebels were given a wake-up call about their ambitions by title-holders the Highlanders, who romped to a 27-3 win at AAMI Park.
The loss was compounded by injuries to English (knee), veteran centre Tamati Ellison (hamstring) and fullback Jonah Placid (shoulder) which meant the trio were unable to finish the match.
English left the changerooms with his leg in a brace and the initial diagnosis was a grade 2 ACL tear.
Scans will confirm the length of time the 25-year-old will be sidelined however there are fears he could miss six weeks, with the entire season a possibility.
The absence of Ellison for next Sunday’s clash in Sydney would be a big blow, with the Rebels missing his playmaking skills and defensive work when he sat out their round three game through concussion.
With their blockbusting winger Sefa Naivalu still a game or two away from returning from his badly broken leg and utility back Mike Harris unavailable with a quad injury the backline stocks are at an all-time low.
The Rebels have only beaten NSW once in 10 meetings, a two-point win in Melbourne in 2013.
Rebels stand-in captain Sean McMahon said his team’s heavy travel schedule couldn’t be blamed for their error-ridden performance.
He gave credit to the Highlanders’ defensive pressure, with their game plan successfully spoiling the Rebels’ attack at the set piece.
“It all came down to little mistakes that we did and first phase turnovers which gave them opportunities in defence to come in and attack us,” McMahon said
“We’ll work on that but best thing about Super Rugby we’ve always got another week.”
Sam
Guest
That would be Reece Hodge, who had a blinder on debut. With Ellison and English out he may play in centres or on a wing.
Stray Gator
Roar Rookie
Agree with every point. Especially the one re Placid - his fear under the high ball was palpable from 75 metres away. Hopefully Stirzaker's return will get Debrecezini firing again - he's been getting worse each week.
stillmissit
Roar Guru
Losing Placid is a bonus for the Rebels they improved when the sub came on. Sorry cant remember his name. Debrizinii is a big problem. I thought he would improve to become the #1 5/8 in the country but on this W/E's showing he is 3rd or 4th at best. Meehan has been a good sub for Sterzacher but it is time for the redhead to start and Meehan take the last 10mins.
rayfinkle
Guest
i think the tahs also have injury concerns with Horne breaking his hand and Latu also appears to be injured, (in addition to P-Nau, and Hegarty out for long periods.)
Ken
Roar Rookie
It came down to a ridiculous amount of aimless kicking the possession away Sean Debreceni has not been a playmaker this season - he seems to have lost go forward confidence. Take it to the line man and create some space - you are big enough to offload. And your kicking is now woeful - in timing and effectiveness We the crowd started booing each kick in the second half it was so obvious and sad. Meehan also a culprit In protest, we walked out at 75mins and others around us were not disagreeing.... :( A first, I hope never to repeat