2020 Super Rugby AU – Melbourne Rebels vs NSW Waratahs Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Melbourne Rebels vs NSW Waratahs taking place? Saturday 29th August, 2020 – 10:15 (UK)
Where is Melbourne Rebels vs NSW Waratahs taking place? Leichhardt Oval
What channel is Melbourne Rebels vs NSW Waratahs on? Sky Sports Action
Where can I stream Melbourne Rebels vs NSW Waratahs? Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match via Sky Go
Where can I get tickets for Melbourne Rebels vs NSW Waratahs? Visit this link for ticket information on Super Rugby games
THE TEAM NEWS
MELBOURNE REBELS
- Melbourne Rebels were unable to extend their unbeaten run to five matches as they fell to defeat against Reds in their last game and they must now attempt to respond as they face NSW Waratahs in a hugely pivotal clash.
- Having won three successive matches, the Rebels took an early lead against the Reds but that penalty was the only time they would trouble the Queensland outfit as they went down 19-3 in a disappointing outing.
- In a big blow for the Rebels, captain Dane Haylett-Petty has once again been ruled out but they are boosted by the return of Matt To’omua who will be able to offer his playmaking ability in the centres.
NSW WARATAHS
- NSW Waratahs were unable to live with the Brumbies in the second half of last week’s contest after going toe-to-toe in the first half and that will disappoint them having had the chance to make it three wins in a row.
- The Waratahs trailed by just a point at the break but they were outclassed in the second period as the Brumbies ran in 26 unanswered points to condemn the New South Wales outfit to a 38-11 defeat.
- They remain in the top three but must win this clash to stand any chance of retaining that spot come the conclusion of the round robin, although the absence of Karmichael Hunt will be hard-felt once again with ex-rugby league player Tepai Moeroa handed a first start in the centres.
THE PREDICTION
Melbourne Rebels face NSW Waratahs in a crucial contest in the race for a spot in the top three. The Rebels are just a point adrift of the Waratahs but do possess a game in hand so even a narrow defeat will keep their hopes alive, while a defeat for the Waratahs will end their participation in the competition. There is little to split the two teams and this one could go all the way and with so much at stake, this could be a nervy affair which should result in a contest that produces no more than 48 points.
