Errant goal-kicking cost Rebels

The Rebels were made to rue flyhalf Jack Debreczeni's poor goal-kicking display in their loss to the Brumbies on Friday, according to SARugbymag.co.za's Opta-powered stats.

The hosts matched the Brumbies in virtually every facet of play, but they would have hoped for a better return in front of goal. Debreczeni recorded a lowly 50% success rate from the kicking tee, and although opposite number Christian Leali'ifano also missed five attempts at posts, the Brumbies had every right to keep faith in their chief goal-kicker, who was also their only option in this match because of Matt Toomua's absence.

Debreczeni has been struggling in front of goal throughout the season and captain Nic Stirzaker could have tossed the ball to fullback Mike Harris. He didn't, and the decision proved costly in a three-way race towards the top of the Australian conference.

Overall, possession and territory was equally split and both teams succeeded in winning all their lineouts, but the Brumbies won the scrum battle, which aided their cause. Defensively, the Rebels only missed 14 of their 124 tackles, while the Brumbies made 99 tackles and slipped 18.

See how your favourite player fared in this match

 Photo: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

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