The Western Force have vowed to make things personal against the Queensland Reds as both teams attempt to avoid the Super Rugby wooden spoon.
The last-placed Force (15 points) have just three games remaining to climb off the foot of the table, while the Reds (17) are also in danger of finishing last.
The two strugglers meet in Perth on Saturday night, with the Force in no mood for any niceties.
The Perth-based franchise were beaten 18-6 by the Reds earlier this season, and prop Pek Cowan says the team are eager to turn the tables on Saturday night.
“You don’t normally like to lose a derby game, so for us there’s definitely a bit of revenge,” Cowan said.
“We’re making it very personal. We’re going to make sure we do the job.
“We’re playing to win.
“We’re playing all Australian teams (in the last three rounds), and there’s no better way to take out a bit of frustrating than to play against guys that you know quite well.”
The Force were left to rue a series of early missed opportunities in last week’s 23-3 loss to the Highlanders.
Queensland are also aiming to bounce back after losing 21-14 to the Sharks in Brisbane.
Cowan said he’s expecting a bruising encounter against the Reds.
“It’s going to be a physical battle, and one we have to make sure we’re up for,” Cowan said.
They back their pack. They play to their strengths. Their team is making really good gains off the forward pack.
“Their scrum’s good, their mauling is great, and they like to play a tight game. We’ve got our work cut out for us.”
The Force take on the Brumbies (home) and Rebels (Melbourne) in the last two rounds, while the Reds finish off their season against the Chiefs (home) and Waratahs (Sydney).
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