 The Rebels in 2013 were bolstered by the signings of Scott Higginbotham and Japanese hooker Shota Horie and these signings helped them achieve a 12th-place finish, securing a franchise record 36 points.The secured their first victory over a South African side when the defeated the Stormers and also claimed the Weary Dunlop shield when they defeated the NSW Waratahs.In 2013 the Rebels also hosted the touring British and Irish Lions side, although they were defeated 35-0 at AAMI Park.