Mitchell calls for better set-pieces

August 28, 2008 - 9:09PM


Western Force coach John Mitchell has made major changes to his Super 14 side's starting line-up for Saturday's tour match against English Premiership outfit Leicester Tigers.

Mitchell was disappointed with his team's set-piece effort in their 22-3 defeat to Northampton last week and has shifted experienced back rower Tamaiti Horua to lock to provide greater stability in the lineout for the clash in Leicester clash.

A young front row will step out for the visitors including Pek Cowan, 22, Luke Holmes, 24 and Kieran Longbottom, 22, while Queensland club rugby recruit Filipe Manu has won a recall at No.8.

Mitchell has also made significant changes to the backline with James O'Connor switching to fullback, Scott Daruda returning to flyhalf and dynamic running pair Junior Pelesasa and Josh Tatupu reinstated in the midfield.

The Force have posted two wins and two draws from their development tour of the UK but Mitchell said his team would need to produce a super effort to knock off the Tigers, who reached the final of the Premiership last season.

"Our set piece really let us down in the last match but it's been a great experience for our front row in particular to come over here to England and experience the different conditions and the different types of pressure," Mitchell said.

"At the end of the day we won't be judging ourselves on results on this tour but by what we learned and how we adapted to different situations in games.
"Leicester are one week out from competition so they will be using this match as an opportunity to look at combinations for the start of the season.

"You look at their side and they are loaded with England internationals so it will be a good experience for our side coming up against a committed and full-strength opposition."


© 2008 AAP


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