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Coach John Mitchell says the Western Force will rue the 2009 Super 14 season as a missed opportunity as some stars depart and the franchise takes on a new look next year.
- May 17, 2009 - 2:18PM
After finishing the season in eighth place with six wins and a draw from their 13 games, the Force lose Matt Giteau and Josh Valentine to the Brumbies, Drew Mitchell to the Waratahs, and Tai McIsaac, Scott Staniforth, Tamaiti Horua, Ben Castle and Junior Pelesasa overseas following Saturday's 33-28 win over the Highlanders.
With heartbreaking losses to the Hurricanes, Bulls, Stormers and the draw with the Crusaders, Mitchell sees 2009 as a missed chance to achieve something special.
"Since bye week, the players have owned the way we've played and I just think we have left at least two games on the table.
We missed a lot of the close ones and you have to nail those to be a serious contender," Mitchell said.
"I guess there are elements of mostly goodness, some sadness and also frustration of not reaching our potential as a team this year.
"That will probably dawn on all of us over the next few days."
Despite the departures, a solid core remains in Nathan Sharpe, David Pocock, Richard Brown, Matt Hodgson, Pek Cowan, Tom Hockings, Sam Wykes, Ryan Cross, Cameron Shepherd and Nick Cummins joined by newly-signed Kiwi prop Tim Fairbrother and NSW halfback Brett Sheehan.
Re-signing young backline star James O'Connor is the great priority and Stormers flyhalf and inside centre Peter Grant is still on the radar, along with NSW prop Damian Fitzpatrick and others.
"We are now entering a phase where we have a clear strategy and plan which we want people committed to," said Mitchell.
"Our forward pack will be even stronger, we've got an international backrow, a halfback who is a very good ball threat and what we do need to fill is 10 and 12," Mitchell said.
"We are pursuing Peter Grant and then there's the acquisition and retention of James.
"We are also looking at a winger who is very similar to Cummins in terms of size.
"We have an opportunity to restart our club and build new habits to new people."
Winger Scott Staniforth farewelled Australian rugby with two tries in his 100th Super rugby appearance and while a little sad to go, predicts a strong future for the Perth-based club.
He will retain a residence in Perth while playing and coaching in Japan.
"It's a little bit emotional, but it has to finish sometime and it's a good way to finish on 100 games with a couple of tries and a win.
"With guys like Richard Brown, Dave Pocock and pretty much a really good 12 players, there are just three players needed.
"Hopefully James O'Connor can get across the line and another five-eighth, and they will be very competitive next year."
AAP
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