Western Force stun Brumbies in high-scoring thriller

In an exciting Super Rugby Pacific encounter at GIO Stadium in Canberra, the Western Force ended a 14-year drought by defeating the ACT Brumbies 45-42 on Saturday.

The match was characterized by relentless attacking play, multiple lead changes, and a dramatic late try by reserve hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa, which secured the Force's historic victory.

The ACT Brumbies commenced the match with high intensity, quickly asserting their dominance. In the 5th minute, fly-half Declan Meredith orchestrated a well-executed backline move, culminating in winger Corey Toole crossing the try line. Ryan Lonergan added the conversion, giving the Brumbies an early 7-0 lead.

The Brumbies maintained their momentum, and by the 15th minute, their forward pack showcased their strength with a rolling maul that saw hooker Billy Pollard touch down. Lonergan'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, fly-half Ben Donaldson capitalized on a Brumbies' handling error, intercepting a pass and sprinting 40 meters to score under the posts. Donaldson converted his own try, reducing the gap to 14-7.

However, the Force's discipline wavered, and in the 25th minute, they were reduced to 14 men following a yellow card for repeated infringements. The Brumbies took advantage, with number eight Charlie Cale powering over from close range in the 28th minute. Lonergan's conversion pushed the score to 21-7.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Force responded in the 35th minute. A strategic kick by scrum-half Nic White placed the Brumbies under pressure, leading to a lineout deep in their territory. From the ensuing play, flanker Carlo Tizzano crashed over for a try. Donaldson's conversion brought the Force closer at 21-14.

As halftime approached, the Brumbies sought to widen the gap. In the 40th minute, a well-timed offload from center Len Ikitau set up fullback Ollie Sapsford for a try in the corner. Lonergan's precise conversion sent the teams into the break with the Brumbies leading 28-14.

The Western Force emerged from the halftime interval with renewed determination. In the 45th minute, sustained pressure in the Brumbies' 22-meter area resulted in prop Tom Robertson barreling over the line. Donaldson's conversion narrowed the deficit to 28-21.

The Brumbies responded swiftly. In the 50th minute, a break by flanker Rory Scott created space for Meredith, who sidestepped the defense to score beneath the posts. Lonergan's conversion restored the Brumbies' two-try cushion at 35-21.

Undeterred, the Force capitalized on a Brumbies' handling error in the 55th minute. Center Hamish Stewart intercepted a loose pass and raced 30 meters to score. Donaldson's reliable boot added the extras, bringing the score to 35-28.

The momentum shifted further in the Force's favor when, in the 60th minute, a series of pick-and-go plays culminated in replacement back-rower Nick Champion de Crespigny diving over. Donaldson's conversion leveled the match at 35-35.

The Brumbies, eager to reclaim the lead, mounted an offensive in the 65th minute. A clever chip kick by Lonergan was gathered by Ikitau, who offloaded to Toole for his second try of the evening. Lonergan's conversion edged the Brumbies ahead 42-35.

As the clock ticked towards full-time, the Force exhibited remarkable resilience. In the 75th minute, after a sustained 18-phase assault on the Brumbies' try line, reserve hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa burrowed over to score. Donaldson's pressure-filled conversion tied the game once more at 42-42.

With momentum on their side, the Force continued to press. In the 78th minute, a penalty awarded for offside allowed Donaldson to step up and calmly slot the three points, giving the Force a 45-42 lead.

The Brumbies launched a desperate final attack, but the Force's defense held firm, securing a memorable victory and ending a 5,060-day winless streak in Canberra.