Super Rugby
O'Connor excited by Cipriani partnership
ESPNscrum Staff
February 19, 2012
The Rebels' James O'Connor throws the Crusaders' Israel Dagg into touch, Melbourne Rebels v Crusaders, AAMI Park, Melbourne, Australia, February 18, 2012
James O'Connor deals with Israel Dagg during the Rebels' loss to the Crusaders © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Danny Cipriani | James O'Connor
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James O'Connor is excited about the possibilities presented by his new partnership with Danny Cipriani at the Melbourne Rebels.

The 21-year-old bagged a solo try from inside-centre as the Rebels lost out 19-14 to the Crusaders in a trial game on Saturday, and he believes that that franchise are on an upward curve prior to the new Super Rugby season.

His burgeoning pairing with Cipriani - capped seven times by England - could be very exciting for the Rebels, with O'Connor crediting their good off-field relationship for a quick start on-field.

"He's playing well and controlling the game really well and that's what I like from a 10," O'Connor told AAP. "He gives me a lot of time and space and lets me do what I do. "You want to have a tight team and the closer you are with guys off the field, the closer the bond is on the field and you know what they're going to do."

The Rebels get their season underway with a tie against the Waratahs on March 2 and O'Connor, who left the Western Force to move to Melbourne, is keen to show what they can do.

"It's looking promising, it is," he said. "I'm very excited. I just want to play more footy with the boys and with the Rebels. I'm liking where I'm at, at the moment."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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