WATCH: Rebels backrow with MONSTER tackle vs Reds

The Melbourne Rebels will be kicking themselves following a 26 -22 loss to the Reds in today’s Super Rugby Pacific clash.

Holding a comfortable 15 – 5 lead at halftime, the Rebels looked set to put some distance between themselves and the Reds on the overall table. Instead, it would be Les Kiss’s Queenslanders who would bag a bonus point win to move into 5th on the log.

Defending their lead early in the first half, the Rebels were looking to withstand a fast second-half start from the Reds.

Looking to exploit what initially appeared to be a bit of space, the Rebels chipped over the Red’s line from deep in their own half, only to see the Reds cover it masterfully.

From here, the hosts launched a brilliant attack, with winger Mac Grealy throwing a superb offload to backrow Fraser McReight, who had the try line at his mercy.

As quickly as the space emerged, it was slammed shut by Rebels backrow Vaiolini Ekuasi, who absolutely smoked McReight.

The Auckland-born 22-year-old is in his second season with the Melbourne franchise and has become a stalwart for the side.

Prior to his time in Australia, Ekuasi played one match for the Blues in 2022 as well as playing for Auckland in the NPC.

Eligible for Tonga through his family heritage, the backrow has all of the hallmarks to be a star for the Pacific Nation going forward.