Rebels vs Western Force Betting Tips, Preview & Odds – Rebels backed to cruise into play-offs

The Rebels tackle the Western Force in an all-or-nothing Super Rugby AU clash at the McDonald Jones Stadium on Friday. A win by four or more points will see the Rebels qualify for the play-offs.

The Rebels have tasted defeat in their last two fixtures, which has piled pressure on their play-off hopes. In their last match, the Rebels lost 38-32 to the Waratahs in Sydney, but the bonus point for losing within 7 points was vital, as it ensured a routine win of by 4 or more this weekend will secure a play-off berth.

Before the defeat to the Waratahs, the Rebels went down 19-3 to the Reds. However, their quality was evident prior to that result with a 30-12 victory over the high-flying Brumbies.

The Rebels will go in at full strength considering the importance of the fixture. Full-back Dane Haylett-Petty is unlikely to make a return in time which means Reece Hodge will continue in that position. 

Star man, Matt To’omua feature at inside centre last week but could return to his favoured fly-half position at the expense of Andrew Deegan.

The Western Force did well in terms of performances in the first few matches of Super Rugby AU, but their confidence has been depleted and they have struggled of late. In their last match, they were defeated 31-14 by a Brumbies outfit which rested players. Before that loss, they were humiliated 57-5 by the Reds.

In games prior to those results, the Force went down 20-8 to the Waratahs and 24-0 against the Brumbies.

With nothing to play for the Western Force are likely to change things up a bit. Nick Frisby could come in at scrum-half. Richard Kahui will be looking for a return to the starting  line-up at centre while Chris Heiberg impressed off the bench at hooker last week.

The Rebels have a 3-2 advantage over the Western Force in their last five meetings. The last meeting ended with the Rebels winning 25-20 in Sydney.

The Rebels are priced at 1.17 to win, while the Western Force are available at 5.50. The handicap is set at 14 points.

The Rebels know exactly what they need to do, so they won't need any extra motivation. The Western Force are poor, so they are likely to struggle once again, especially when it comes to defending close to their own line.