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The Western Force were simply unable to get moving against the Blues, going down 40-14. It was clear from the kickoff that the Blues were going to dominate the Force in the backline, with their All Black players carrying most of the load.
The main issue for the Force was their poor kicking. They had no faith in their forwards and gave up all of their genuine attacking opportunities by kicking the ball away, allowing the Blues backline to march straight up the field.
A lack of production in their own half was what accounted for most of the problems with kicking. They were unable to control the game and play simple, structured and defensive football, which is when they are at their best.
They easily defend pick and goes and are able to dominate the strongest of forward packs.
There was some good news for the Force however, with Nathan Charles scoring a try off a simple pick and go at the goalline, and Bernard Stander finishing off the match with a try.
The Force missed the presence of Wallaby winger Nick Cummins, who may have provided the explosiveness the backline needed. Flanker Angus Cottrell was also absent due to his leg injury and is a player who may have been able to light a spark within the forwards.
Maybe it will take a few more Wallabies stars to help the Force reach their prime, but at the moment they will have to regroup and win the last two games of the season to make the finals.
The Force will have to do so against two Australian sides, and the match ups look anything but easy.
They will have to beat the Reds – who looked fantastic against the Melbourne Rebels Friday night, before taking on the Brumbies in Canberra.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.