The recent Super Round in Melbourne’s rugby scene was a whirlwind of emotions, featuring a series of highs and lows. The event commenced with logistical challenges, such as a deflated blow-up castle and relocation of face-painters due to a westerly gust. Nevertheless, the matches began with a thrilling encounter between the Highlanders and Blues, setting the stage for an exhilarating weekend of rugby.
Taking place against the backdrop of financial turmoil, with the Melbourne Rebels in administration and Rugby Australia recuperating from a disappointing World Cup campaign, the unwavering dedication of rugby union fans at AAMI Park was evident.
One such devoted Rebels supporter, Chris, proudly displayed his foundation member hat dating back to 2011 and fondly recalled the team’s inaugural fixture against the Waratahs. In addition, Michael Kelly and Tony Boult, both fervent supporters of Rugby Australia, highlighted the need for the organisation to reassess its strategy in order to retain fans.
The matches were thrilling, culminating in a 37-29 victory for the Blues. Moreover, the round served as a celebration of Pacific rugby, uniting 12 teams in one city. Nonetheless, some attendees expressed a desire for the event to incorporate more international cultural elements, such as featuring Pacific food stalls.
Despite the fervour of the fans, this year’s attendance fell short of the previous year, with just 10,582 fans in attendance. Furthermore, the future of the Super Round in Melbourne remains uncertain as the current deal is set to expire this year.
In the face of these challenges, attendees such as Raylene Lee and Lenore Smith remained optimistic and made the most of the event. However, there were also concerns about the future of the Rebels, with fans like Ash Fulcher and Alti Aiga expressing apprehension about the team’s fate and its potential impact on young aspiring players.
The evening culminated in an electrifying match that saw the Rebels secure a 48-34 victory against the Force, instilling hope in the club and its fans. It served as a reminder of the resilience and spirit of the rugby community in the midst of financial adversity.
In conclusion, the Super Round in Melbourne underscored the passion and dedication of rugby fans in the face of adversity. Despite financial challenges and uncertainties, the event brought fans together and provided a glimmer of hope for the future of the sport in the region.