There is real optimism growing for Force supporters in the west about this Saturday night’s match against the Waratahs at NIB Stadium. The Western Force will be recharged after coming off a bye last week, and the Waratahs will be seeking redemption from last week’s defeat to the Brumbies in Sydney.
Despite the Waratahs sitting above the Force in the Australian Conference Standings, there is a real sense that the Waratahs are vulnerable. This Saturday night’s match is tremendously important to both teams.
The Waratahs fall from grace as Australia’s premier Super Rugby team has been a real talking point this season, and a victory over the Force will keep their potential finals chances a lean glimmer of hope. The Waratahs will be looking to rebuild and install much needed confidence before embarking on the arduous trip to face the Stormers in Cape Town next week.
The Force on the other hand have had a less than ideal season. To their credit they’ve put some competitive performances on the field, however old habits die hard and they find themselves with only a one win from their seven matches played this season.
The Force have a perfect opportunity to right many wrongs from this season, and put that top shelf performance on the field that was promised to the Sea of Blue at the beginning of the season.
I sat down with Western Force Open-side Flanker and ex Waratah player, Chris Alcock to discuss this Saturday nights clash.
Being a New South Welshman and an ex-Waratah. What does a match against the Waratahs mean to you?
Gee tough question…This season is now my fourth with the Force and I consider them (The Force) my home team, and playing the Waratahs is just like playing any other side in the competition.
What has been the Force’s issues for a lack of success this season?
We have versed very tough opposition. Besides the Rebels each team we have played so far has played finals rugby in the last few years. We have a new game plan, a lot of our errors have been generated from adopting to this new style of play. We are getting better each week.
What are the Waratahs biggest threats?
They are a very attacking side and dangerous when they get good go forward. Good ball runners…our defence is absolutely key.
Where do the Force need improve to ensure they win on Saturday night?
We just need to be more consistent. That starts by winning our set piece and sticking to the game plan for the full 80 minutes.
What is key for the Force to win on Saturday night?
Defence is number one. First up tackles need to stick. We can’t fall off out tackles and allow them to get over the gain line easily. If teams allow their (the Waratahs) attacking threats time and space they will punish you.
How do you combat the Foley, Beale and Folau combination?
They are not the most hard hitting defenders. We look to get good go forward and carry in those channels. If our defensive structure is solid we can contain any team in the competition.
How is it looking on the injury front this week?
Lance could be back, Brache is chance of playing. Hoskins in front row could be back this week also. Godwin is back this week.
How is the knee? When will we see Chris Alcock back on park?
The knee is getting there. If all things go well, I will hopefully get the all clear by the club and put my hand up for selection next week.
Did the Brumbies give you guys a roadmap last week in how to beat the Waratahs?
The Brumbies exploited the outside channels very well. We have a plan in place and we will stick to that…umm but if those opportunities out wide present themselves, we will definitely exploit them.
The Takeaways
A very tight lipped Chris Alcock was savvy keeping the Force’s cards very close to his chest. However, I think what we can expect is an enthusiastic and pumped up Force side who are ready to pounce on a very vulnerable Waratahs outfit. It will be a match where the Force will be looking to build from the cornerstone of their defence.
It is well documented and well known that the Waratahs certainly have the talent in Foley, Beale, Folau and Hooper to get the four points.
The Force have presented themselves as a somewhat bogey team for the Waratahs in recent times. Can history repeat itself and see the Waratahs encounter another sorry night in Perth this Saturday?
Predictions
Force by 3 points.
24-21
