The Rebels got their 2013 Super Rugby campaign off to a winning start when they beat Australian rivals, Western Force, 30-23 on Friday.
Both teams scored three tries apiece, but the Force were let down by a lack of discipline at key moments, with fullback James O’Connor, sporting one of the more horrific hairstyles to ever be seen on a rugby field, booting three penalties to give the Rebels some crucial breathing space.
It was a big day for the Rebels, who have never won their opening Super Rugby match! They recovered from a slow start, coming from 11-0 down midway through the first half to overhaul the visitors 30-23 at full-time.
The Rebels host the Brumbies in Melbourne next Friday, while the Force travel to Port Elizabeth to play the Kings on Saturday.
SCORERS
Rebels – Tries: Ged Robinson, Hugh Pyle, Richard Kingi. Conversions: James O’Connor (3). Penalties: O’Connor (3).
Force – Tries: Alfi Mafi (2), Richard Brown. Conversion: Kyle Godwin. Penalties: Godwin (2)
