The Western Force played arguably their best rugby of the season to overcome the Brumbies by 15 points in an absolute stunner at HBF Park.
The outstanding performance meant everything to the Sea of Blue, beating the Brumbies for the first time in a decade and keeping their 2023 finals hopes alive.
The Brumbies came into the game on fire however it was matched by good line speed and coverage from the Force, which shut them down from scoring an early try.
Possession was traded back and forth in a very entertaining start to the game that was full of expansive rugby.
It was the Force who got on the front foot early and after a disallowed try from Wallaby Tom Robertson, it was Felix Kalapu who got the first points. The try was set up by Carlo Tizzano who charged through multiple defenders to get the Force right on the line.
The following passage of play was unmissable as Brumbies’ Tom Hooper almost hit back for his team however a brilliant steal from Rahboni Vosayaco eventually led to a 50/22 from non-other than Folau Fainga'a to put the Force back in a dangerous position.
As the Force attacked with ferocity, Brumby Jack Debreczeni was sent off with a yellow card which allowed Hamish Stewart to cruise in for his sides second try giving the Force a dream start.
Suddenly the Force were back in scoring position and after two plays no one could stop Sam Spink who crashed over to put the Force up by 21 points.
After a quick counterattack, the Brumbies were able to get their first try of the game set up by a pacey Corey Toole.
Five minutes before halftime Darcy Swain crashed over to score the Brumbies’ second try, setting up a blockbuster second half with the teams only separated by 9 points.
It was a quick start to the second half as Max Burey almost scored the try of the season with a quick chip and chase, just dropping the ball ahead of the line.
Dominance at scrum time saw the Force awarded a penalty right in front allowing Burey to extend the lead to 12 points.
Both sides stayed aggressive throughout the second half as the Force laid some massive hits to bolster their defence.
Eventually, the visitors were able to send over Luke Reimer to get another seven points on the board as the score sat at 24-19 with 25 minutes to play.
After an almost certain try from the Brumbies, Siosifa Amone was able to strip the ball and send Toni Pulu down the field 70 metres to get the Force back in charge.
The Force desperately needed another try and it was Joondalup boy Marley Peace who delivered, skipping over to put the men in blue up by 12 points with eight minutes remaining.
A beautiful exit followed that saw a crucial penalty awarded again which gave Burey another three points giving the Force a heavy advantage to close it out.
The aggressiveness from the Force took the Brumbies off guard as they were able to cap off a spectacular match earning their sixth win in a row at HBF Park.
Scorers Force 34 Tries: Felix Kalapu, Hamish Stewart, Sam Spink, Marley Pearce Conversion: Max Burey 4 Penalties: Max Burey 2
Brumbies 19 Tries: Charlie Cale, Darcy Swain, Luke Reimer Conversion: Ryan Lonergan 2
