The Western Force kicked off their Super Rugby campaign with an electrifying victory, overcoming a late deficit to edge out Moana Pasifika 45-44 in a sensational match in Perth on Saturday night.
With just four minutes left on the clock, the Force appeared to be on the back foot, trailing Moana 44-31 at HBF Park.
However, winger Dylan Pietsch sparked hope with a determined try, before Wallabies teammate Ben Donaldson delivered a moment for the ages by scoring a final try after the siren had sounded.
Ben Donaldson of the Force marks a memorable victory with his winning try. Getty
With time expired and the Force trapped in their own half, they persevered through 26 grueling phases before Donaldson managed to exploit a gap in the defence.
The crafty playmaker recognised some fatigued Moana forwards in the sweltering 30-degree heat and powered through for a remarkable try.
Donaldson’s successful conversion marked a perfect start for Aussie teams in the opening round, following the NSW Waratahs’ narrow win over the Highlanders at 37-36 on Friday and the ACT Brumbies’ remarkable comeback to clinch a 36-32 victory against the Fijian Drua on Saturday.
Earlier in the match, it seemed Donaldson might be forced to leave the field after rolling his ankle on Jackson Garden-Bachop’s foot.
“It was a tough moment rolling my ankle, but the doctor gave me about six Panadols, and that worked like a charm,” Donaldson shared with Stan Sport.
“We talk about being tough for each other… I was just trying to do my part, and the boys really hung in there.”
“We started last season 0-4, and it takes a toll on you.”
Donaldson was flawless with the boot, converting all seven attempts, while his Wallabies teammate Carlo Tizzano was also exceptional, notching up two tries.
“As a dedicated (Force) fan, to be part of this is a surreal experience for me,” Tizzano expressed with enthusiasm on Stan Sport. “I remember the moment in 2014 when I was in those stands, watching the Honey Badger (Nick Cummins) score against the Waratahs…”
“Our rich history means the world to my family and me.”
Donaldson’s late-game heroics overshadowed a potential dream debut for new Moana captain Ardie Savea.
Western Force 45
Tries: Tizzano 2, Grealy, Pearce, Pietsch, Donaldson
Conversions: Donaldson 6/6
Penalties: Donaldson 1/1
Moana Pasifika 44
Tries: Taumoefolau 2, Garden-Bachop, Patafilo, Tailoa, Taumateine
Conversions: Havili 4/6
Penalties: Havili 1/1
Drop Goal: Garden-Bachop 1/1
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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