Melbourne Rebels must match Sharks’ physicality and aggression, Scott Fuglistaller says

SCOTT Fuglistaller says Melbourne must at least match - or better - the aggression and physicality of the Sharks if the are to record an upset win.

Melbourne Rebels training at Visy Park, Scott Fuglistaller during training . April 30th 2014. Picture : Colleen Petch.

SCOTT Fuglistaller insists Melbourne must at least match — or better — the aggression and physicality of the Sharks for the Rebels to have a winning shot against Super Rugby’s benchmark.

The Sharks boast a lethal, heavyweight pack and are on the rebound tomorrow night at AAMI Park from a stinging loss to the Highlanders.

But Fuglistaller, who yesterday signed a two-year contract extension, believes the best way to counter the Sharks’ incredible firepower is with force.

“Every team I’ve played with, if we’ve played South African teams, it’s always about being clever and getting around them and moving them around,” Fuglistaller said.

“I think this time matching that physicality and taking it away from them is a key driver.

“You put someone on a (physical) pedestal like that, then you’ve already lost half the battle before you go on.”

One of Melbourne’s most influential on-field generals, Fuglistaller said the Sharks brought a menacing predictability to their trade.

“Specifically, their physicality, the identity they have that — no matter what or who they play — they come with the same attitude, the same style, that brute force,” he said.

“I think if we can match that, and if we can take that part of the game away from them, that will put us in good stead towards the back of the game to put some points on.”

Melbourne’s front-row consistency will be tested tomorrow with the probable absence of Wallaby contender Toby Smith with an injured shoulder.News_Rich_Media: Fox Sports rugby union commentator reviews all the weekend's action.

Cruze Ah-Nau is likely to earn his first start after impressing coach Tony McGahan with his dedication to improvement.

Fuglistaller, 27, is the latest Rebel to commit to the club as it continues to build towards the future.

The back-rower joins Nic Stirzaker and Scott McMahon among a growing group to extend deals as the club pursues a number of potential targets.

Wallaby Berrick Barnes, who played in Japan last season, and other leading players from rival Australian provinces are under consideration.

Part of Melbourne’s leadership group, Fuglistaller has been in tremendous form this season after winning the club’s Spirit of Weary Dunlop award — a trophy dedicated to the player who shows the most on-field passion.

Fuglistaller said Melbourne’s potential was a strong factor in his decision to stay at the club.

“I feel 100 per cent that the club is heading in the right direction,” he said.

“I understand the difficulty the club faces financially, and what rugby in general faces financially.

“To do what they’ve done here so far, and to carry on doing it, is well done and I tip my hat to everybody involved. I feel like the Rebels are definitely something I want to continue to be a part of.

“This club gave me a two-year contract and a chance in Super Rugby, and I feel like repaying the faith in them is the right thing to do and I am happy to stick around for another two years.”