The Western Force has achieved what many thought to be impossible: on February 22, 2025, they defeated the ACT Brumbies 45-42 in Canberra, marking their first win there since 2011. This remarkable victory ended a 5,060-day drought and has sent shockwaves through the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
From the outset, the Force made their intentions clear. They stormed to a substantial 21-0 lead, punishing the Brumbies for their sluggish start. Two early interceptions paved the way for tries, showcasing the Force's clinical approach and strategic execution. Harry Potter was instrumental, not only scoring but also delivering key tackles to frustrate the opposition. This combination of sharp attacking play and resilient defense caught the Brumbies off-guard and set the stage for what would become one of the franchise's standout matches.
Despite holding the early momentum, the Force faced their own challenges as the match unfolded. They received four yellow cards—an unprecedented disciplinary hit during such a pivotal fixture. This put them at times down to as few as 13 players, yet instead of crumbling, they exemplified grit and determination. The visitors managed to keep the Brumbies scoreless during the final quarter of the match, even managing to score late to secure the victory.
"It’s one of the great wins in the history of this team," said former Wallaby Morgan Turinui, underscoring the significance of this historic triumph. Nic White, who once played for the Brumbies, echoed similar sentiments after the match, stating, "I’m just happy for the boys. We were in a dog fight. Credit to the boys, we stuck to our plan." Such reflections highlight not only the emotional weight of the win but also the tactical discipline exhibited by the Force throughout the contest.
On the flip side, Brumbies captain Allan Alaalatoa expressed disappointment at their slow start, admitting, "There was always belief we could come back, but you can’t start like this. The Force were good enough to capitalise on our mistakes." It is clear their early lapses put more pressure on the team, which struggled to find their rhythm even as they began to claw back points and take the lead early in the second half.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham, faced with the dual challenge of revitalizing his team and adapting their strategy, also lamented the missed opportunity. "Some poor decision-making, carelessness in attack and a supremely dogged display from the Force saw the visitors pinch the game," he stated, illustrating the mix of frustration and respect for the Force’s efforts. Despite having numerical advantages several times due to yellow cards against the Force, the Brumbies couldn't find their foothold to capitalize effectively.
The Force’s victory was not just about the scoreline or the breakdown of play; it symbolized the shift away from years of underachievement. For the fans and the players alike, this match serves as more than just another fixture on the season's calendar. It heralds the dawn of a new attitude—a bold assertion from the Force to the competition. After such hard-fought victories, they sit atop the Aussie conference, with aspirations not just to compete but to dominate.
Returning to Perth, the Western Force could not only celebrate this historic moment but also look forward confidently as they prepare to face the Queensland Reds. The message is now clear: write this team off at your peril. Their success radiated from the core belief and resilience demonstrated throughout the match, setting the tone for the remainder of the season.
With numerous talented players at their disposal and newfound confidence, the Western Force are ready to shake up the league. This unexpected yet thrilling victory is more than just three points; it marks the beginning of what could be remembered as their renaissance, one match at a time.