In what was one of the most exciting matches the Force has played this year, the men in black and gold went down to the Waratahs by 22 points in Sydney.
The Force exploded in the second half through pieces of brilliance from wingers Manasa Mataele and Zach Kibirige to finish with a final score of 36-16.
It was perfect conditions for rugby at Allianz Stadium as the Force looked to get their third win in Super Rugby Pacific this season.
The visitor’s defence was tested early as the Waratahs looked aggressive from the outset of the match, playing an expansive style in attack.
Bayley Kuenzle was injected early off the bench after replacing Jake Strachan in the first three minutes however, Strachan returned shortly after passing a concussion test.
Scrumhalf Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, who started the match due to a late change, was outstanding from the outset, putting a massive hit on Wallaby veteran Michael Hooper.
The first points for the Force came from Jake Strachan, scoring a penalty after 19 minutes on their first realistic attacking opportunity.
Crucial plays from Tom Horton and Manasa Mataele held back the Tahs as tempers started to flair in what was turning into a heated contest.
Down to 14 men, the Force showed an extreme amount of fortitude in the first 30 minutes keeping the score at 10-3.
The Waratahs were able to sneak in another two tries alongside another three points from Strachan before halftime setting the score at 22-6.
The Force had some work to do to get back into the game, maintaining possession and consolidating some attacking phases the key focus for the visitors in the second period.
After some strong plays on both sides of the ball the Force started to build pressure and milk a number of penalties out of the Waratahs.
The Force’s first try of the game came in what was arguably the play of the game from Mataele taking a spectacular catch to score off a cross kick from Hamish Stewart.
With momentum behind their back and the Waratahs down to 14-men the Force looked dangerous to get back into the game.
The men in black and gold had a considerably better second half, finishing strong in every game they’ve played in 2023.
In yet another piece of brilliance, Zach Kibirige put in his piece for play of the game scoring with a chip and chase over Max Jorgensen in what will be in contention for try of the year.
The Waratahs secured a bonus point try to close out the match however head coach Simon Cron can take out some massive positives from his side’s second half performance.
Scorers Waratahs 36
Tries: Izaia Perese (2), Mark Nawaqanitawase Jake Gordon, Harry Johnson-Holmes
Conversion: Ben Donaldson 4
Penalties Ben Donaldson
Western Force 16
Tries: Manasa Mataele, Zach Kibirige
Penalties: Jake Strachan 2
