End of an Era: How the Western Force Triumphed After Over 5000 Days of Struggle

In the second week, the Super Rugby deities proclaimed, ‘For your unwavering dedication during tedious matches and slow-moving play, it’s time for you to enjoy exhilarating tries, and they’ll be nothing short of spectacular. For your loyalty during challenging times and unbalanced games, you faithful followers of SR, prepare for a succession of thrilling encounters, for it is now 2025, and you’ve certainly earned it.’

Let us commend the gods, as they have blessed us with a fortnight filled with brilliance to relish this Monday. With so much happening, it’s quite a challenge to determine where to begin with our weekly quick recap.

This past weekend delivered not one, but two massive upsets, an emotional tribute to life, the arrival of a star from the Pacific, and the triumphant return of the Queensland Reds.

Right then, let’s jump straight into the action in Canberra.

5060 DAYS OF STRUGGLE ARE FINALLY OVER

As Saturday’s clash neared its conclusion, I must have reached out to ‘Producer Pitbull’ several times to confirm it had indeed been 5060 days since the Force last triumphed over the Brumbies in Canberra.

It was all detailed in the media kit, but it felt unbelievable, almost impossible.

‘Pitbull, just to confirm, it’s definitely 5060 days since they beat them here?’

‘Absolutely mate.’

‘Can’t be true.’

‘It is indeed, mate.’

‘Oh mate…’

Sure enough, the stat was spot on, and the Western Force started their season with two victories for the first time in history.

So, how did they pull off this monumental upset away from home?

The turning point came with just ten minutes remaining. Trailing by four points, reduced to 13 players, and camped on their own line with the Brumbies ready to feed the scrum.

Incredibly, Brendan Paega-Amosa and his forwards managed to secure a tighthead, they cleared the ball into touch, and then surged downfield to score. Remarkable!

Morgan Turinui hailed it as one of the club’s greatest victories, and the accolades rolling in from across the West have been heartwarming.

Alongside standout performances from Ben Donaldson, Carlo Tizzano, and Darcy Swain, it was also noted by Tim Horan that Force winger Dylan Pietsch’s impressive form could be linked to the arrival of his ragdoll cats in Perth.

Meow, as the kids would say.

Catch all the action from the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season on Stan Sport, the only platform to enjoy every match ad-free, live, and on demand

NO DRAKE, NO DRAMAS

There was much excitement surrounding the Queensland Reds’ season opener and the anticipated arrival of Drake at Suncorp Stadium.

A special box had been reserved for the Canadian rapper, and it was widely expected that this drone aficionado would be attending to support Fraser McReight and his squad.

Although his entourage appeared, Drake himself was a no-show, leading the beloved, rugby-obsessed NZ band Six60 to perform in his stead.

In fact, the band member Hames, along with his daughter Fleur, presented the match ball.

What followed was yet another entertaining display of scoring, with the home side notching up over 50 points amidst challenging conditions.

Moana faced disappointment, yet they discovered a genuine talent in Kyren Taumoefolau.

This 21-year-old has transformed into an attacking nightmare in recent matches and undoubtedly ranks as one of the competition’s best finishers.

He crossed the line for two tries and seems poised for much more within a formidable backline.

Originally from Tonga, he represented his nation at the 2023 Rugby World Cup before teaming up with Moana.

A MEMORABLE FAREWELL

Tragically, the Highlanders’ Connor Garden-Bachop passed away unexpectedly last year, leaving a profound impact on the club.

In front of a large crowd in Dunedin on Saturday afternoon, his teammates sang “Country Road” alongside the fans to honour his memory. Following this, they performed a haka, presenting jerseys to his brother Toby.

The emotional scenes were deeply moving, and against all expectations, the locals managed to defeat the reigning champions.

Down to just 13 players, the Dunedin team found strength and resilience, buoyed by stellar performances from Timoci Tavatavanawai and newcomer Finn Hurley.

Hurley, nicknamed ‘The Finisher’ by Sky Sports’ Jeff McTainsh and Joe Wheeler, excelled with two tries under his belt.

Jamie Joseph’s squad is set to cause more upsets this year, further solidifying the Waratahs’ narrow win against them in week one.

A heartfelt tribute to the Highlanders for celebrating Connor — a truly unforgettable moment.

HURRICANES MISSED OUT ON DRUA

Fiji will have to hold off a few more weeks before securing an elusive win on New Zealand soil, coming very close against the Hurricanes.

They led until the bitter end but faltered following a failed restart.

Starting the season at 0-2, the Drua are gaining immense support from fans. Their opening home game was a sell-out, and they once again drew significant crowds at Maclean Park in Napier.

At times, the atmosphere felt like a home match for Fiji, given the noise they generated.

Next up, they face the Tahs in Sydney; let’s hope they fill the SFS come Friday night.

Toso Fiji fans, Toso!

BOK CELEBRATES HIS 100TH

Refereeing can be as subjective as tastes in commentary, favourite ice cream flavours, or coffee preferences.

Everybody has their own opinion, and I personally enjoy the officiating of NZ referee Ben O’Keefe.

He marked his 100th Super Rugby match over the weekend in Canberra, overseeing one of the most exciting games on Australian soil we’ve witnessed in quite a while.

Historically, when O’Keefe is in charge, matches tend to be fast-paced and often reach thrilling conclusions.

To me, that’s the hallmark of a fine referee. Congratulations, Benny.

BIG NAMES IN BETWEEN TWO POSTS

A thrilling few days ahead on Between Two Posts as Super Rugby champion, Wallaby, and now Green Rocket Nick Phipps joins Morgs and me to discuss Super Rugby and the Six Nations.

In BTP Extra, world Rugby Sevens player of the year Maddi Levi features, sharing her journey to the top and her potential shift to 15s for this year’s World Cup.

See you on set!