Force Secure Last-Play Win vs Reds | Trial Game Recap

The Western Force secured a narrow 21-19 victory over the Queensland Reds in a thrilling pre-season trial match held Friday afternoon at Scotch College. The game, played in sunny but windy conditions before approximately one thousand spectators, went down to the wire with a last-play try.

A See-Sawing Contest

The match proved to be a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading tries throughout the three 30-minute periods. The Reds initially took the lead through Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the 14th minute, but the Force quickly responded with a try from Darby Lancaster, leveling the score at 7-7.

Force Dominate Early, Reds Fight Back

An enterprising opening half hour saw the Force, featuring off-season recruit Lancaster and Wallabies hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa, demonstrate strong attacking intent. Scrum-half Nathan Hastie and fly-half Ben Donaldson orchestrated much of the Force’s early play, supported by the powerful running of George Bridge and Kurtley Beale. However, the Reds battled back, with James Martens scoring to put them ahead in the 42nd minute.

Did You Know? The match was played in three 30-minute periods.

Dramatic Finish Seals Victory

The final period saw the Reds seemingly on course for victory, leading 19-14 with only a minute remaining. A late penalty against the Reds, resulting in a yellow card for scrum-half Kalani Thomas for kicking the ball away, proved crucial. The Force capitalized, earning a 10m lineout and launching a sustained attack on the Reds’ try line.

Ultimately, Titi Nofoagatotoa powered over for the winning try, with Justin Landman calmly converting from a slight angle to secure the 21-19 win. Earlier, Paenga-Amosa had also scored for the Force, adding to Lancaster’s earlier effort.

Expert Insight: The Force’s ability to capitalize on the late penalty and maintain composure in the final minute demonstrates a resilience that could prove valuable as the season progresses. Securing a win in such a tight contest, even in a pre-season trial, can build momentum and confidence within the squad.

Looking Ahead

The Western Force will next be in action on Friday, January 30th, against the ACT Brumbies at Scotch College. The Brumbies match could provide a further indication of the Force’s form and potential for the upcoming season. It is possible that the team will experiment with different combinations and strategies as they prepare for the competitive matches ahead. Analysts expect the Force to build on this pre-season win.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the match?

The Western Force defeated the Queensland Reds 21-19.

Who scored the winning try for the Western Force?

Titi Nofoagatotoa scored the winning try on the last play of the game.

When is the Western Force’s next match?

The Western Force’s next match is on Friday, January 30th, against the ACT Brumbies at Scotch College.

What does this hard-fought pre-season victory suggest about the Western Force’s potential for the upcoming season?