The Rebels have performed above expectations this season but will face a stern test on Friday night when they host the Chiefs.
As the leading points scorers in Super Rugby Pacific this year, the Chiefs have been putting on big scores against teams not up to the challenge.
The Rebels' defence will certainly be put to the test at AAMI Park for this one, against a Chiefs outfit who are serious contenders to reach another grand final this season.
. What: Rebels v Chiefs
. Where: AAMI Park, Melbourne
. When: 19:35 (AEST), Friday 17th May 2024
. How to watch: Stan Sports
. Odds: Rebels 7.50, Chiefs 1.08
Recent results don't tell the real story
Looking at the form book, the Rebels head into this game on the back of three straight defeats and next face one of the strongest teams in the competition.
However, a closer look at the performances and the opposition in the last three weeks shows there is more to be optimistic about in the Rebels' camp than at first glance.
After a heavy loss away at the reigning champions the Crusaders, the Blues were always going to be a difficult challenge at AAMI Park in the following game.
Last time out the Rebels gave a good account of themselves in the road at Suncorp Stadium but fell on the wrong side of a 26-22 scoreline against the Reds.
Still sat in sixth place on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder, the Rebels are still ahead of the curve, having won just four of their 14 games last season and finishing down in 11th.
Head coach Kevin Foote and his players deserve great credit for how the side have progressed and they will get another good acid test against the Chiefs this week.
Unsurprisingly, the Rebels are the 7.50 underdogs to claim the win, while they are available at 1.91 with +18 in the Line market.
Chiefs to take some stoppingScoring 426 points in their first 11 games of the season, at an average of 38.7 points a game, it's no wonder why the Chiefs have such a feared attacking game.
With Damian McKenzie pulling the strings at fly-half, this Chiefs side are able to attack from anywhere on the field.
McKenzie continues to impress this season and the All Blacks utility back is 1.90 in the anytime tryscorer market to go over against the Rebels in Melbourne.
Chiefs star Emoni Narawa is the shortest price at 1.50 in the anytime market, while he is 9.00 to bag the opening try of the game.
The Hamilton outfit have won nine of their last 10 games against the Rebels and victory on Friday would make it seven wins on the bounce in this fixture.
It certainly looks to be a huge challenge for the Rebels this week but one they seem much more prepared for than they have in the past.
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