Super Rugby reaction
Skipper Delve wants more from Rebels
February 16, 2013
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Highlights: Melbourne Rebels 30-23 Western Force (Aus Only)
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Players/Officials: Gareth Delve
Tournaments/Tours: Super Rugby

Melbourne Rebels captain Gareth Delve was happy his side could beat the Western Force, but knows they will need to improve immensely to mix it with the heavyweights of Super Rugby.

The Rebels overcame a slow start to register a 30-23 victory over the Force at AAMI Park on Friday night and while Delve was pleased with the effort his side displayed, he feels that there is still plenty of room for improvement.

"We weren't particularly happy with the performance, but we are proud of the effort that was put in from the first minute to the last," Delve said. "It wasn't particularly pretty, but I think we grounded out that win. We showed a lot of character and at times I think we would have come out losing that match."

Delve said his side must improve if they are to have any chance of beating the Brumbies next week in the second round of Super Rugby and that the club as a whole has heightened expectations in 2013.

"I hope this is a great start for us and I think it is," he said. "We are certainly happy with the four points and it is a start for us. It does show where we set our standards this year. We want to be consistent and we want to perform well."

Rebels coach Damien Hill was frustrated by his side's slow start - the Force scored the first 11 points of the match - but was proud of the way they fought back to take control of the contest in the second half.

"In the first 20 minutes we chose not to treasure possession and gave away opportunities," Hill said. "But we are happy with the win. We can only improve from here and we will need to as we have got the Brumbies next week."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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