Western Force women will hit ground running

Western Force Buildocrp Super W coach Sebastian Delport says his team will attack from the outset when they take on the Melbourne Rebels in their opening game on Sunday.

“First and foremost, we are excited to see what the team can do,” Delport said.

“They have been working hard over the last couple months to get their skills and physicality up to speed and now we are ready to play.

“I think this team will bring a really nice mix of style. We are looking to keep ball in hand and stress teams with our ball carrying ability and also get the ball into the wider channels.

"At the same time if the opposition leave space we will look to pressure them with tactical kicking."

Delport named his matchday 23 on Friday and will will look to vice-captain Antoinette Jago and Wallaroo backrower Vesinia Schaaf-Taufa to lead the forward pack and look to set a solid platform for the WA side’s exciting backline.

Skipper Trilleen Pomare has been named at flyhalf in a backline that boasts a wide range of attacking threats including hard running Wanneroo centre Tui Cope, Sevens superstar Courtney Hodder on the wing and Wallaroos outside back Madeline Putz at fullback.

Experienced campaigners Alex Bannon and Rebecca Clough have been named in the reserves with the Wallaroos duo to supply plenty of energy and aggression when they enter the game.

TEAM

Western Force Women team to play Melbourne Rebels women

1. Antoinette Jago (VC)

2. Tara Reed

3. Ariana Carnachan

4. Katie Barnes

5. Gillian Forde

6. Kristin Fairbairn

7. Vesinia Schaaf-Taufa

8. Terau Passene-Grennell

9. Kendra Fell

10. Trilleen Pomare (C)

11. Courtney Hodder

12. Tui Cope

13. Zakiya Kereopa

14. Pauline Dupressoir

15. Madeline Putz

Reserves:

16. Katherine Outred

17. Alex Bannon

18. Darryl Wickliffe

19. Rebecca Clough

20. Taylor Waterson

21. Zion Taurima

22. Natalia Tearoa

23. Anne Fagan

The match will be streamed LIVE on www.rugby.com.au and broadcast delayed on Fox Sports 501 at 9:00pm.