The Western Force Women’s team is gearing up for their upcoming Super Rugby Women’s trial match against the Queensland Reds, scheduled for Saturday, February 15, at Ballymore Stadium in Brisbane. Following a commanding 45-6 victory over Rugby Victoria last weekend, the Force is eager to maintain their momentum as they prepare for the season opener against the ACT Brumbies on March 1 in Perth.
Key Highlights:
- Leadership: Captain Trilleen Pomare will once again lead the team, with newly appointed vice-captain Hera-Barb Malcolm Heke starting at hooker.
- Debut Appearance: Wallaroos standout Ashley Marsters is set to make her debut in the Force’s signature periwinkle blue jersey, coming off the bench as an impact player.
- Front Row Strength: Wallaroos prop Allana Sikimeti earns her first start with the Force, joining Malcolm Heke and Braxton Walker in a formidable front row.
- Dynamic Backline: The backline features the experienced duo of Pomare and Cecilia Smith in the midfield, with wingers Haylee Hifo and Brooklyn Teki Joyce poised to add speed and agility on the flanks.
Starting XV:
- Allana Sikimeti
- Hera-Barb Malcolm Heke
- Braxton Walker
- Michaela Leonard
- Rosie Ebbage
- Tamika Jones
- Anneka Stephens
- Pia Tapsell
- Ai Dickson
- Nicole Ledington
- Brooklyn Teki Joyce
- Trilleen Pomare (Captain)
- Cecilia Smith
- Haylee Hifo
- Halley Derera
Reserves:
- Loretta Mailangi
- Hannah Palelei
- Alapeta Ngauamo
- Sera Naiqama
- Ashley Marsters
- Tizanae Kovacs
- Grace Freeman
- Ngamihi Monk
The team is scheduled to depart for Brisbane on Friday, with the match kicking off at 10:30 am WST on Saturday. While there will be no live stream available, fans can stay updated through the Western Force’s official social media channels.
As the Force continues to fine-tune their strategies and build cohesion, this trial match serves as a crucial step in their Super W campaign preparations.
Read more: https://westernforce.rugby/news/force-team-named-reds-trial-marsters-first-time-2025214
