Waratahs to take on Western Force in weekend clash
Besides the pre-match preparations for the Waratahs and Western Force, the other highlights of the week for the both teams include the field war of words started by former Western Force Centre Ryan Cross.
Besides who wins or loses the match is of vital interest as the number of former players of both teams will be taking their former colleagues/teammates on as they take the field during the weekend as part of Super XV round eight.
Ryan Cross remained part of Western Force for four years before moving to Waratahs and has hinted in his sides’ easy win over the Western Force.
Waratahs will take on the Western Force at Perth, with recent history depicting the team, hosting has more chances to lose no matter what sort of team they play. Besides Ryan Cross, former Western Force players Drew Mitchell and Sitaleki Timani will also
be looking forward on taking their former mates, which might provide some eye catching moments for the fans.
For the weekend clash both team has announced their teams making few changes. Changes mostly are forced, as players have to swap due to the injuries while other changes are made to make room for the promising players to take part in the field.
For Waratahs, Kane Douglas has replaced their Lock Pat O’Connor while Pat McCutcheon has been included in the starting line-up to take place of the Phil Waugh.
Waugh of course sustained the Calf Strain in their last match against the Chiefs that Waratahs won 23 – 16. Waratahs have also made some changes in their bench as the Al Baxter has recovered from the thumb injury, while Chris Alcock has been given a place
on bench after considering his performance during the Shute Shield matches.
Alongside Phil Waugh, Waratahs will also be without the services of their Fly Half Berrick Barnes who is yet to recover from the concussions caused by the headknock. Barnes received an unintentional elbow of Ita Vaea, Brumbies back.
Western Force also has made changes in their teams for their upcoming Waratahs encounter. Jono Jenkins has been included in the starting line-up in place of Matt Hodgson who sustained a shoulder injury. Prior to this Force’s are already without the services
of the David Pocock. Former Hurricane player Willie Ripia will also be making his debut for Western Force and will strengthen the Forces’ Backline.
Force’s need to put up exceptional performance to if they want to give themselves any chance of winning against the Waratahs. Waratahs on the other hand will start as the favourites.
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