Injuries hit Force for Waratahs clash

Thu, Apr 21, 2016, 6:16 AM
Matt Lewis
by Matt Lewis
Marcel Brache replaces Luke Morahan on the wing. Photo: ARU Media/Stu Walmsley
Marcel Brache replaces Luke Morahan on the wing. Photo: ARU Media/Stu Walmsley

The Western Force have made two changes to their starting XV as they look to stretch their streak over the Waratahs to four matches.  

Prop Francois Van Wyk will start his first match of the season after a successful return from a wrist injury last weekend, replacing the injured Pek Cowan who broke his arm in his side's loss to the Crusaders.

In the only other change to the starting side, Luke Morahan has been rested with general soreness, giving Marcel Brache a shot on the right wing.

Capped Wallaby Nathan Charles will miss the match after dislocating his shoulder against the Crusaders, giving young hooker Harry Scoble a  chance to earn his first Super Rugby cap from the bench.

The Force are coming off their first bye of the season, a timely break after a hectic start to the season, coach Michael Foley said.

“We took some time to recover during the first part of the bye week and began preparing for this match last Thursday,” he said.

“The break has allowed us to address some key areas that we’re looking to improve for the next three games before our next bye. While the Waratahs have a number of strike weapons that we need to pressure,  we’re looking forward to the challenge of playing one of the leading teams in the competition.”

The Western Force host the Waratahs at nib Stadium at 7:30pm AEST, LIVE on FOX SPORTS.

TEAM

1. Francois van Wyk

2. Heath Tessmann

3. Tetera Faulkner

4. Sitiveni (Steve) Mafi

5. Adam Coleman

6. Angus Cottrell

7. Matt Hodgson (C)

8. Ben McCalman

9. Alby Mathewson

10. Peter Grant

11. Semisi Masirewa

12. Solomoni (Junior) Rasolea

13. Ben Tapuai

14. Marcel Brache

15. Dane Haylett-Petty

RESERVES

16. Harry Scoble

17. Chris Heiberg

18. Jermaine Ainsley

19. Rory Walton

20. Brynard Stander

21. Ryan Louwrens

22. Kyle Godwin

23. Albert Nikoro

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