In a match filled with drama, lead changes, and a breathtaking finish, the Western Force pulled off a stunning 45-44 comeback victory over Moana Pasifika in Perth on Saturday.
Fly-half Ben Donaldson was the hero of the night, scoring an extraordinary last-minute try from inside his own half after 26 relentless phases of play. With his side trailing and the clock deep into the red, Donaldson sliced through the Moana defence with a dazzling 70-meter solo run, evading four defenders before touching down under the posts. He then slotted the conversion, sealing a remarkable win for the home side and sending the Perth crowd into a frenzy.
It was a game that had everything—ferocious attacking rugby, powerful forward battles, and moments of individual brilliance. Moana Pasifika, who had led 44-38 with minutes to play, looked set to claim victory before Donaldson’s last-gasp heroics turned the match on its head.
A Game of Twists and Turns
Moana Pasifika came into the clash full of confidence, with All Blacks star Ardie Savea making his debut for the team. Their confidence showed early as they stormed into a 14-0 lead within the opening 18 minutes, thanks to well-worked tries from Kyren Taumoefolau and Jackson Garden-Bachop.
The Force hit back through a Ben Donaldson penalty, but Moana quickly reasserted control, with Garden-Bachop adding a smart drop goal to push the score out to 17-3.
However, the Force found their rhythm and mounted a strong comeback. Carlo Tizzano and Mac Grealy both crossed the try line, with Donaldson converting both to level the game at 17-17 by the 28th minute. The back-and-forth nature of the contest continued, with Pepesana Patafilo scoring for Moana before Tizzano bagged his second try of the half. A late William Havili penalty nudged the visitors ahead 27-24 at halftime.
The second half continued in the same frantic fashion. The Force took their first lead of the match in the 50th minute, with Marley Pearce crashing over. But just as momentum seemed to shift in their favor, Taumoefolau struck again for Moana, putting them back in front 32-31 on the hour mark.
Then came a crucial turning point. The Force struggled at the set-piece, conceding multiple scrum penalties, leading to Tom Robertson receiving a yellow card in the 70th minute. With the hosts down to 14 men, Moana Pasifika capitalized, running in quickfire tries through Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa and Jonathan Taumateine, extending their lead to 44-38.
Despite the late setback, the Force refused to give in. Dylan Pietsch narrowed the deficit with a try in the 76th minute, setting the stage for one final push.
Donaldson Delivers the Knockout Blow
With time expired and the Force pinned deep in their own half, their chances of snatching victory seemed slim. But in a display of patience and determination, they built 26 phases of sustained attack, slowly edging forward.
Then came the moment of the match—perhaps even the season. Donaldson, who had earlier battled through an ankle injury, spotted a gap, backed himself, and took off. He burst through the defensive line, outpaced four Moana defenders, and sprinted 70 meters to score a sensational try under the posts.
His conversion was a mere formality, and as the ball sailed through the uprights, the Force had completed one of the most remarkable comebacks in Super Rugby history.
Key Takeaways from a Classic Encounter
1. Australian Rugby Starts the Season on a High
All three Australian teams showed immense grit in their opening-round victories, proving they can fight back from adversity. The Force’s comeback will only fuel confidence across the competition, as belief continues to grow within Aussie ranks.
2. Ben Donaldson Steps Up When It Counts
Big moments demand big players, and Donaldson delivered. His match-winning try was the stuff of legend, but his overall performance was just as impressive—20 points off the boot, a try assist, and flawless goal-kicking. If he keeps performing like this, he could become a vital player for both the Force and Australian rugby.
3. Nic White and Nic Dolly Shine
Veteran scrumhalf Nic White was a standout, controlling the game with his smart decision-making and pinpoint passing. His assist for Pietsch’s try was crucial in the Force’s fightback.
Meanwhile, debutant Nic Dolly put in a rock-solid shift at hooker, showing precision at the set-piece and justifying his selection ahead of more experienced options.
4. Openside Flanker Depth in Australia is Stronger Than Ever
The battle for Australia’s No. 7 jersey is heating up. Carlo Tizzano delivered a commanding performance, bagging two tries and making key tackles throughout the game. With players like Fraser McReight and Luke Reimer also impressing, the depth in this position has never looked better.
5. Kyren Taumoefolau Is a Star in the Making
The 21-year-old winger Kyren Taumoefolau was electric for Moana Pasifika, showing blistering pace and sharp finishing to score a brace. If he continues this form, he could quickly become one of the most exciting young players in Super Rugby.
What’s Next?
The Force will head into Round 2 full of confidence, but a tough challenge awaits as they travel to Canberra to face the Brumbies. Meanwhile, Moana Pasifika will need to regroup before taking on the Queensland Reds in Brisbane.
If this match was any indication of what’s to come, Super Rugby Pacific 2024 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons yet.
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