The Western Force have produced the upset of the Super Rugby Women's season by becoming the first Australian team to ever defeat the NSW Waratahs in a gritty 28-21 win.
Knowing a victory would not only make history but also book the Force's ticket for the finals, the home team produced a blistering second half to overcome their opponents at a windy Tompkins Park on Saturday.
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Courageous defence laced with clinical attack proved crucial for the WA-based team, as they moved seven points clear of the last-placed Queensland Reds (two) with one round remaining.
It wasn't a smooth sailing victory for the Force though, after they found the tryline once compared to NSW's three times in the opening 40 minutes.
But outside centre Cecilia Smith sparked the comeback to life when she crossed twice in a matter of minutes to lock the scores at 21-all.
Hera-Barb Malcolm Heke wrestled over to take the lead for the home team in the 60th minute, but moments later, back-rower Pia Tapsell was handed a yellow card for intentional infringement.
The Force withstood the Waratahs' desperate attack, and the home team had a massive opportunity to seal victory through a Sammy Wood penalty goal.
Although she steered the ball to the left of the posts, the Force held on to end the Waratahs' 37-0 unbeaten streak against fellow Australian sides.
"We've had this Waratahs team on our radar for the last few years. To beat them for the first time at home, in front of our families, and this crowd, it's super special," Wood told Stan Sport.
"To be able to put up a performance like that from 21-7 down is going to raise a few eyebrows and get girls wanting to play for this club."
The Waratahs had already qualified for the finals after the Fijian Drua beat the Reds earlier on Saturday, but their hopes of securing a fourth consecutive minor premiership have been dented.
NSW sit five points behind the Drua (14), and must win by 25 points against the Reds next Sunday to clinch first place.
