The Western Force ramped up their preparations for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season with an internal trial match at Scotch College on Friday. The game featured the ‘Probables’ donning gold jerseys against the ‘Possibles’ in blue, played over three 25-minute periods. The Probables secured a 42-0 victory, though the primary focus was on assessing player performances and combinations, with several athletes switching sides as the match progressed.
Key Highlights:
- Return of Key Players: The trial marked the return of prop Atu Moli, prop Harry Johnson-Holmes, and fly-half Reesjan Pasitoa, all coming back from extended injury layoffs. Additionally, 2021 Nathan Sharpe Medalist Kane Koteka made a notable comeback after 18 months away from the Force program.
- Standout Performances: Scrum-half Nic White opened the scoring with an early try, converted by fly-half Ben Donaldson. Winger Harry Potter impressed with his aerial skills, while Donaldson showcased effective field kicking. Off-season recruit and Australia U20s representative Divad Palu had bright moments, starting on the wing for the Probables.
- Physical Intensity: The match was marked by its physicality, with flanker Reed Prinsep delivering a solid tackle on back-rower Carlo Tizzano, followed by a strong hit from Koteka on Tizzano moments later.
Despite the 32-degree heat, the players demonstrated commendable effort and competitiveness, vying for spots in the Round 1 lineup. The coaching staff will be encouraged by the depth and talent on display as they fine-tune strategies ahead of the season opener.
The Force’s 2025 Super Rugby Memberships are now available, offering access to seven home games and Super W matches starting from $170 per adult. There’s also a FREE Junior Force Membership for one child under 15 with a paying adult.
As the season approaches, the internal trial provided valuable insights into the squad’s readiness, with several players making strong cases for selection in the upcoming campaign.
Read more: https://westernforce.rugby/news/force-internal-game-scotch-college-2025131
