Rebels to use kicking game against Bulls

The Melbourne Rebels plan to unleash their twin super-boots Jack Debreczeni and Reece Hodge as they chase an elusive first Super Rugby win in South Africa.

The Rebels are facing the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld stadium in Pretoria on Saturday (Sunday AEDT) and hope their kickers can extend themselves at altitude.

Five-eighth Debreczeni has previously slotted a penalty from 50m out while rookie fullback Hodge is also a noted goalkicker.

The Bulls are expected to play a traditional style meaning they will also rely on their set-piece and kickers rather than running the ball.

Wallabies backrower Sean McMahon, captaining the Rebels with Nic Stirzaker still sidelined, said they will look to take advantage of the above-sea level conditions.

"They've (Debreczeni and Hodge) got massive boots and it would be silly not to use those skills that they've got," McMahon said.

"If the opportunity comes and we can nail it from far out I'm sure we're going to take that opportunity."

The Rebels opened their season with a 25-19 win over the Western Force before the Bulls were first-round losers at the hands of the Stormers.

Melbourne have been rocked by serious injuries to utility back Mike Harris and flanker Colby Fainga'a, however Debreczeni, who missed the win through illness, has made a full recovery.

McMahon said a first win on South African soil was added motivation.

"Definitely - the Bulls are a big, physical side so it's going to be big test for us but we're training well so it's a big opportunity," he said.