Western Force beat Moana Pasifika 45-44 in Super Rugby opener

Western Force 45-44 Moana Pasifika

In a pulsating Super Rugby Pacific season opener at HBF Park in Perth, the Western Force secured a dramatic 45-44 victory over Moana Pasifika.

The match, characterized by relentless attacking play and multiple lead changes, culminated in a last-minute try by fly-half Ben Donaldson, whose performance was instrumental in the Force's comeback.

Moana Pasifika commenced the match with high intensity, quickly asserting their dominance. In the 5th minute, winger Fine Taumoefolau showcased his speed and agility, breaking through the Force's defensive line to score the opening try. Fullback William Havili added the conversion, giving the visitors an early 7-0 lead.

The momentum remained with Moana Pasifika as they continued to pressure the Force. By the 15th minute, their efforts were rewarded again when center Levi Aumua powered over the line for their second try. Havili's successful conversion extended the lead to 14-0.

Facing a significant early deficit, the Western Force began to find their rhythm. In the 20th minute, they earned a penalty, and Donaldson opted to kick for goal, securing their first points and reducing the gap to 14-3.

However, Moana Pasifika quickly responded. In the 25th minute, Havili executed a well-placed drop goal, extending their lead to 17-3.

The Force, undeterred, intensified their efforts. In the 30th minute, winger Manasa Mataele finished a well-orchestrated backline move, diving over in the corner. Donaldson's conversion brought the score to 17-10.

The see-saw nature of the first half continued. Moana Pasifika's forward pack showcased their strength, and in the 35th minute, flanker Solomone Funaki crashed over from close range. Havili maintained his perfect kicking record, pushing the lead to 24-10.

As halftime approached, the Force capitalized on a defensive lapse. In the 40th minute, center Kyle Godwin intercepted a pass and sprinted 40 meters to score under the posts. Donaldson's conversion narrowed the halftime deficit to 24-17.

The second half began with the Force carrying forward their momentum. In the 45th minute, number eight Tim Anstee showcased his athleticism, breaking through multiple tackles to score. Donaldson's conversion leveled the match at 24-24.

Moana Pasifika, determined to regain control, struck back swiftly. In the 50th minute, substitute hooker Ray Niuia finished off a driving maul, and Havili's conversion restored their lead to 31-24.

The Force responded in kind. In the 55th minute, replacement prop Tom Robertson powered over the line after sustained pressure. Donaldson's reliable boot once again leveled the scores at 31-31.

The intensity escalated as both teams vied for supremacy. Moana Pasifika appeared to seize control with two quick tries. In the 60th minute, Aumua secured his second try of the match, and just five minutes later, Taumoefolau mirrored the feat, each time with Havili converting. This surge saw the visitors establish a 44-31 lead by the 65th minute.

Despite the daunting deficit, the Western Force exhibited unwavering determination. In the 70th minute, winger Dylan Pietsch capitalized on an overlap, sprinting down the sideline to score. Donaldson's successful conversion brought the Force closer at 44-38.

As the clock ticked towards full-time, the Force mounted relentless attacks. Their persistence paid off in the 78th minute when, after multiple phases, Donaldson spotted a gap in the tiring defense and darted through to score the decisive try. Amidst immense pressure, he calmly slotted the conversion, edging the Force ahead 45-44.

The final moments saw Moana Pasifika desperately attempting to reclaim the lead, but the Force's defense held firm, sealing a memorable victory.