Melbourne Rebels back Matt Toomua can't wait to face the Waratahs.Credit:Melbourne Rebels
This is Matt Toomuas Super Rugby grand final.
The Melbourne Rebels' late-season arrival isn't eligible to play in the finals, so Friday night's clash with the Waratahs at AAMI Park will be as close as he gets, at least for this year.
"It is a little bit. It's a big derby match," Toomua said when asked if this was his big dance for 2019.
Advertisement
"To be a part of that and start is a good opportunity more than anything.
"We can make the table look a lot nicer if we get a good win and I'm aware of the finals situation so for me it's kind of whatever I can do for the team … I'll be doing my best."
The Wallabies back began this season completing his contract with Leicester in England and this meant he couldn't get back to Australia until three weeks ago. But he has quickly made an impact with the Rebels, where he plays as either a centre or Quade Cooper's back-up at five-eighth.
"It's no secret the Rebels have a distinct way of attacking so for me getting used to that and also trying to add my bit to it is something I'll need to do," Toomua said.
Rebels coach Dave Wessels has promoted Toomua to the starting inside-centre role for Friday's game due to his good form off the bench and the need to reduce the load on regular No. 12 Billy Meakes.
"It's more nerve-racking being on the bench as you never know what time kick-off is," Toomua said.
"You could come on in the first minute or you might not get on, so it's good to have some certainty on getting on and hopefully having the chance to play 80 minutes.
"It's been a bit like cramming before the exam the past few weeks, but that's professional rugby. I'm fortunate enough that I've done some stints with teams before so have done this bRead More – Source
[contf] [contfnew] 
Australian Breaking News Headlines
[contfnewc] [contfnewc]
