![Former Melbourne Rebels and AFL boss Ross Oakley.](/web/20170416171939im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/o/o/0/i/o/image.related.landscape.460x307.gvlsvq.png/1492352608001.jpg)
Oakley calls for Rebels to be supported as AFL supports GWS
Ross Oakley calls for the ARU to bolster its Melbourne market in the same way the AFL empowered Greater Western Sydney.
Ross Oakley calls for the ARU to bolster its Melbourne market in the same way the AFL empowered Greater Western Sydney.
The Rebels hope to have Wallabies prop Toby Smith back for their South African tour but have lost Lopeti Timani to a four-week suspension.
The Rebels and the Brumbies faced off in Melbourne on Saturday night with the Rebels winning 19-17.
"We unequivocally reject that the ARU has any ability to 'chop' or 'cut' (ARU words) the Melbourne Rebels Super Rugby licence," the statement read.
Two Victorian rugby lifers explain why Melbourne Rebels are making a difference to the local game.
Rebels coach Tony McGahan says his players need to show their passion for their team when they face the ACT Brumbies on Saturday night.
Melbourne Rebels captain Nic Stirzaker admits players across Super Rugby are growing more frustrated with ongoing doubts on which club will be cut from the competition for next season.
The Melbourne Rebels have every right to be furious with the Australian Rugby Union.
There is one positive out of Melbourne Rebels 51-12 thrashing by the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday night. They only have one game against a New Zealand side left.
When the Melbourne Rebels' first win of the Super Rugby season arrives, it will come from the sum of the team's efforts and not individual brilliance.
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