The Western Force's Super Rugby Pacific finals aspirations for the 2026 season have come to an end, despite a gritty 19-15 victory over the Fijian Drua at HBF Park.
Earlier in the day, the Queensland Reds snatched a late win over Moana Pasifika, leaving the Force needing a bonus-point victory to keep their top-six hopes alive. However, their win over the Drua did not include the necessary bonus point, dashing their finals berth ambitions.
A hard-fought victory
The Force showed tremendous character and resolve after a difficult first half. They trailed 12-7 at the break, but rallied in the second half to secure the win. The team made 211 tackles compared to the Drua's 102, highlighting their defensive determination.
Carlo Tizzano opened the scoring for the Force with his eighth try of the season, equalling club great Cameron Shepherd's record of 30 tries for the club. However, the Drua fought back with tries from Kitione Salawa and Zuriel Togiatama, the latter set up by former Force scrum-half Issak Fines-Leleiwasa.
Second-half turnaround
The Force improved significantly after the break. Vaiolini Ekuasi scored a converted try to restore the lead, and Zac Lomax crossed in the 68th minute following a superb rolling maul. Kurtley Beale made history by coming off the bench for his 186th Super Rugby match, moving into third place on the all-time appearance list.
Despite a late try being disallowed for an airborne knock-on, the Force held on for the win. However, they remain six points behind the sixth-placed Reds, with only one match remaining against the Waratahs next weekend.
Missed opportunities
The first half was marred by sloppy play from the Force, including a mistimed pass, a fumble, and poor discipline at the ruck. They were penalised nine times by referee Paul Williams in the first half. A chance to take a half-time lead was squandered due to a ruck infringement in the 22.
The Drua also had opportunities but were denied by strong Force defence, particularly from Dylan Pietsch. A forward pass from Isikeli Rabitu went unnoticed by officials, much to the frustration of Force fans.
Despite the disappointment of missing the finals, the Force can take pride in their fighting spirit and defensive effort. They will look to finish the season on a high note against the Waratahs.
