The Melbourne Rebels are first on the Super Rugby winners’ list after escaping with a 30-23 win over the Western Force in their season opening clash last night.

The Rebels trailed 11-0 midway in the first half, but three tries and 15 points from the radar boot of star fullback James O’Connor helped the home team to victory.

The Force was rocked in the second half when they had only 13 players for seven minutes with key flanker Chris Alcock and then halfback Alby Mathewson both yellow-carded for off the ball incidents.

Meanwhile, the Brumbies will take on the Reds at 8.40 tonight.


Story by: Aliki Bia