Super Rugby Pacific round-up
They face a considerable challenge in the quarter-finals though, with the Hurricanes having picked the Blues' pocket to finish top of the table.
Following a difficult run of form for the Rebels in the back end of the league season, no doubt influenced by the five months of an increasing sense of financial dread that was finally confirmed this week, they were given a reprieve by Western Force, whose failure to win their last two games ensured the Rebels' strong mid-season run will be rewarded with a first-ever playoff run in the club's 14th and final season.
However, having suffered six losses on the bounce, their quarterfinal away to the table-topping Hurricanes could be a gruesome end to the club's life. They finished off the league season with a 40-19 loss to Fijian Drua, a result that deserves a significant amount of perspective given the players were informed of their liquidation just before their flight to Fiji, with Rugby Australia deeming the rescue package proposed to save the club too optimistic, with insufficient details included to explain how the club could repay the $23m owed to creditors.
Speaking before the game, Rebels coach Kevin Foote said: "[The room was] deadly silent, just absolute devastation, noone said a word. We've really got the opportunity to finish strong ... we're going to hold our heads high and have a crack."
Bu hikaye The Rugby Paper dergisinin June 02, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye The Rugby Paper dergisinin June 02, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
Sleightholme shows he has pace to burn
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YOUNG GUNS
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A brace from Botterill is key to victory for Esher
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McParland keen to shine for England A
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Undercard get chance to show their A-game
ENGLAND’S A team today get their first major work-out after being resurrected earlier this year when Australia’s undercard provide the opposition at The Stoop.
England look like a clueless rabble
I WATCHED with a growing sense of bewilderment as England yet again took to the field against Australia looking to all intents and purpose as if they had just been introduced to each other on the coach into Twickenham.
