‘Bonus-point vital for Rebels’ – McGahan

Editor

Rebels head coach Tony McGahan believes the bonus-point his team achieved in their win over the Cheetahs on Friday could prove crucial later on in the season.

The Rebels' fifth try, scored by Tamati Ellison after intercepting a Cheetahs pass, was scored well into injury time and secured them a 36-14 victory and the bonus point for scoring three tries more than the Cheetahs.

"It will be [vital] no doubt," said McGahan.

"It was really fitting it was Tamati who scored it in the final play of the game because he has a new-born baby just before kick-off and he stayed here and played the game.

"He gave his all for the team and made a big sacrifice."

Intercept tries have gone against the Rebels in previous Super Rugby matches and they have lost some of their back-line players to injury, but McGahan said he's glad that some good fortune is working in their favour at last.

"It was nice to get a little bit of luck our way, a little bounce of the ball," he added.

"We haven't had too many intercepts, we have given plenty away but it was nice to get one back our way."