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There'll be a lot of emotion on Saturday night. Some good, some bad.
I should be man enough to wish the players leaving all the best. But I can't. Like most supporters, I feel let down by their departure.
Matt Giteau has been an outstanding contributor to the Emirates Western Force. He has proven to be a world class player, week in, week out. No one can doubt his commitment to the blue jersey. The Club and the fans are better off for having had him here for three seasons. I thank him for his efforts and wish him well in his return to the Brumbies.
Same with Tai McIsaac. There has been no more durable servant. He didn't miss a game and earned Wallaby selection playing for the Force. I hope his retirement is a rewarding one.
Scott Staniforth has been fantastic. It was a shame he was troubled with injury. A great player and a true gentleman of rugby. We look forward to seeing him around when he returns from Japan.
I don't think we ever saw the best of Tamati Horua. He came with a big reputation but again, injury denied everyone seeing him at his best. I think if he was here next year and stayed injury free, we would have seen something special.
Drew Mitchell showed glimpses of brilliance but I felt he was too inconsistent. On his day, there aren't many more exciting players to watch when in space. Let's hope he doesn't get too much of it when he plays against us next year.
Josh Valentine's departure is disappointing but I guess we have to expect that in the days of professional rugby. He was given a tremendous opportunity when he came to the Force and, after a slow start, he took it. He's now back in Wallaby contention. As thanks, he'd heading to the Brumbies. Good luck to him.
Saturday night should be a great occasion and 882 6PR will be there to capture every moment of it. Our live coverage starts at 7.45 and goes through till 10pm, with on-ground player interviews straight after the full time siren.
Thanks to everyone who's listened and supported our broadcasts during the season. Thanks too, to the management of 6PR for allowing us cover every home game in full, even when there were clashes with the AFL.
Enjoy the game. Bring on 2010.
Cheers,
Mick