It was a gutsy finish last week with two players down, but some desperate defence, self-belief and confidence to get the job done resulted in a pretty good song in the sheds by the boys in blue.
The home record for 2023 stays intact. This week, the Force take their first trip for 2023 to the South Island and take on the Highlanders side who will be pressing to get off the bottom of the ladder.
The Highlanders showed glimpses of greatness, pulling in the reins and playing a more typical Kiwi style of rugby. However, with Aaron Smith back at halfback, they are a different side, and coach Dave Dillon is settling on combinations.
The Force are 2 and 1 after the opening rounds and will view this game as one that could see them climb higher up the Super Rugby ladder.
Crucial week will be the midfield combinations, with Hamish Stewart leading the way with his phenomenal work rate in the opening rounds. If you didn’t know who Rahboni Warren-Vosayaco was last week, you do now! He is a great pickup and provides the pack with some real strength and go-forward.
The Force back three of Pulu, Kibirige and Tiatia should see plenty of ball this week, and the set piece should be at its solid best with McCauley back in the mix. However, the Force will need to keep an eye the Highlanders’ 9 /10 combination of Smith and Hunt and keep the likes of Frizell on the back foot.
