Force keen to get physical
Force keen to get physical
12th February 2009, 12:45 WST
The Western Force will be relying on physicality rather than the blistering Perth heat to get them over the line in tomorrow night’s Super 14 opener with the Blues at Subiaco Oval.
The mid-thirties temperatures experienced in the WA capital this week are forecast to cool tomorrow and the late 7.45pm kick off will be a welcome relief to the Auckland-based visitors, who have been preparing in the west all week.
But the comparatively warm temperature is only seen as a slight advantage to the Force by captain Nathan Sharpe, who wants to see his side match the Blues up front.
“It is a little bit (of an advantage) but I think sometimes you can read too much into it,” Sharpe said.
“I’ve been in teams in the past that have relied on that and it hasn’t worked out. Tomorrow’s going to be a pretty cool day and it’ll be a really good night for rugby.”
A physical approach to the contest is crucial for the Force as they search for their first opening-round victory in history against a Blues outfit which will boast four All Blacks in the tight five.
“I think just being very direct and physical (is the key to victory),” Sharpe said.
“They’re a New Zealand side, all the guys have played against New Zealand sides for a number of years now and it helps because there is a general trait that New Zealand sides play a similar style of rugby.”
The Force caused one of the upsets of the season last year with a 27-17 win over the Blues away in week five but they will have to battle against the odds to do so tomorrow night, with several players ruled out through injury.
The Blues are also undermanned, with several All Blacks missing from their impressive line-up.
“This competition is now about how many guys in your squad are capable of playing well at Super 14 level,” Sharpe said.
“Gone are the days of putting the same XV out on the paddock each week and that just highlights the importance of having good depth.”
Despite their missing internationals the Blues remain $1.75 favourites at the TAB, with the home side paying $2.05.
PERTH
SHAYNE HOPE
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