The Western Force delivered an outstanding performance in the season opener of the Super Rugby Women’s, claiming a resounding 36-12 victory over the Melbourne Rebels at Perth’s HBF Stadium. Winger Rosie McGehan was a standout player, contributing two tries and a crucial assist in the team’s triumph.
From the onset, the Force took charge of the match, securing an early 19-0 lead with three consecutive tries. Despite a resilient effort from the Rebels, the Force maintained their composure and earned a valuable bonus point against the previous season’s bottom-placed team.
Rosie McGehan led the charge with two pivotal tries in the 27th and 50th minutes, also exhibiting her adept playmaking abilities by setting up outside centre Sheree Hume for the sealing try in the 67th minute.
This victory marks an auspicious start for the Force as they pursue their inaugural appearance in the Super Rugby Women’s finals.
Fullback Aiysha Wigley opened the scoring in the 11th minute, finding an opening in the left corner to secure a try. Flyhalf Nicole Ledington then orchestrated McGehan’s second try in the 27th minute with a well-timed offload.
The most remarkable try of the match occurred in the 38th minute, when Force flanker Anneka Stephens executed a robust tackle to halt the Rebels’ momentum, allowing winger Haylee Hifo to sprint 40 metres to extend the lead to 19-0.
Despite the Rebels managing to score two tries before half-time, the Force sustained control of the game, with McGehan and captain Trilleen Pomare effectively setting up the team for further tries.
The revamped Force showcased an impressive performance with 11 new players in the starting XV, including seven making their Super Rugby debut. The team’s triumph in the season opener has laid the foundation for an enthralling and promising season ahead.
This victory also signifies the Force’s determination to make an impact in the competition, positioning them as a team of interest as the Super Rugby Women’s season progresses. With an emphatic start and a talented squad, the Force is poised to be a formidable contender in this season’s competition.