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Emirates Western Force Head Coach John Mitchell has announced his squad for tomorrow’s final trial against the Reds at ME Bank Stadium in Perth.
The 23-man group includes nine players who are set to make their first appearance at home for the club. Matt Dunning, Tim Fairbrother, Nic Henderson, Mitch Inman, Brett Sheehan, Sam Harris, Ben McCalman and Mark Bartholomeusz all saw game time during the two trials in Cape Town, while teenager Stefano Hunt has been named for his first appearance in the senior side, having impressed at the recent Digicel Suva Sevens.
Capped Wallabies in the side include David Pocock, Richard Brown, James O’Connor, Cameron Shepherd, Pek Cowan, Henderson, Dunning, Bartholomeusz, Sheehan and club skipper Nathan Sharpe. Reigning Emirates Western Force Player of the Year, Matt Hodgson, who played for the Wallabies in a non-cap fixture against the Barbarians in 2009, will also take his place in the side.
Cowan, who missed the trip to Africa, has recovered from a slight knee strain and will get match practise ahead of the season opener next week.
Marquee signing Andre Pretorius has been withheld from the game after feeling tightness in his leg during the week while Haig Sare continues his recovery from an Achilles strain.
Mitchell said two matches in four days during the Neo Africa Tri-Series had given most of the squad game time.
“The boys had the chance to come together and learn quickly during the trials in South Africa, which was pleasing, we will need everyone in the squad in this competition,” Mitchell said.
“We need to get the mix right each week and play to our strengths.
He added that Friday’s trial was a vital hit-out going into game one.
“Trial scoreboards mean nothing at the end of the day. This match (against the Reds) we will be looking to be more accurate at some areas of our performance and then make adjustments for round one.
“ME Bank Stadium is our new home, and we need to bring our side of the bargain. It’s our job to bring performance, and the right performance, that’s our job starting next week against the Brumbies.”
Trial Match
Emirates Western Force v Queensland Reds
Friday, 5 February 2010 at ME Bank Stadium
Kick-off 7.45pm
Forwards: Richard Brown, Pek Cowan, Matt Dunning, Nic Henderson, Matt Hodgson, Tim Fairbrother, Kieran Longbottom, Ben McCalman, David Pocock, Nathan Sharpe (c), Richard Stanford, Ben Whittaker, Sam Wykes.
Backs: Mark Bartholomeusz, Sam Harris, Dane Haylett-Petty, Stefano Hunt, Mitch Inman, James O’Connor, Chris O’Young, Brett Sheehan, Cameron Shepherd, Josh Tatupu.