ROUND 15, HBF PARK,PERTH, JUNE 3rd, 2023
In a highly anticipated clash of Super Rugby Pacific’s Round 15, the Waikato Chiefs are set to take on the Western Force at the illustrious HBF Park in Perth on June 3rd. With the Chiefs having secured the top spot for the playoffs after an impressive 31-21 victory over the Brumbies in Canberra last Saturday, they have the luxury of resting 11 of their key starters for their final away match.
The decision to rest their regular starters stems from the Chiefs’ confidence in their secured playoff position. This strategic move allows the majority of their star players to have a well-deserved week off before hosting the quarterfinals. Despite the absence of several familiar faces, the Chiefs’ travel contingent includes those experienced players who will assist the team in preparation and provide a head start for the upcoming crucial phase.
From last week’s starting XV, a notable list of players such as Damian McKenzie, Emoni Narawa, Josh Ioane, Brad Weber, Luke Jacobson, Sam Cane, Pita Gus Sowakula, Brodie Retallick, George Dyer, Samisoni Taukei’aho, and Aidan Ross will be absent from the starting lineup. Among them, Sowakula will be available on the bench. Ioane, who had limited appearances this season due to injury, now has the opportunity to play a significant role following Bryn Gatland’s season-ending bicep injury.
The Chiefs’ reshuffled lineup offers opportunities for fringe players to showcase their talents. Rameka Poihipi, who has impressed in the midfield, will start at first five-eighth for the first time since his First XV days at Hamilton Boys’ High School. Other changes present chances for players like Liam Coombes-Fabling on the right wing, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, poised for his 50th Chiefs appearance at halfback, Simon Parker as the openside flanker, and Rivez Reihana, who makes a return from a knee injury and finds a place on the bench.
Although the Chiefs’ lineup may appear weakened, their depth and talent remain formidable. The team will be led by the experienced Anton Lienert-Brown, a 60-test All Blacks midfielder. Shaun Stevenson, in excellent form, starts at fullback, while All Black Tupou Vaa’i returns to the lock position. Alex Nankivell and Etene Nanai-Seturo continue to bolster the Chiefs’ outside backs, and the impressive Samipeni Finau makes his comeback at No. 8.
With rested stars and emerging talents taking the field, this clash between the Chiefs and the Western Force promises to be a captivating spectacle. Fans can anticipate a fiercely contested match as both teams vie for supremacy and momentum heading into the playoffs. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable display of skill, determination, and strategic maneuvering.
Chiefs: Shaun Stevenson, Liam Coombes-Fabling, Alex Nankivell, Anton Lienert-Brown (capt), Etene Nanai-Seturo, Rameka Poihipi, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi; Samipeni Finau, Simon Parker, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Tupou Vaa’i, Laghlan McWhannell, John Ryan, Tyrone Thompson, Ollie Norris. Reserves: Bradley Slater, Jared Proffit, Atu Moli, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, Pita Gus Sowakula, Cortez Ratima, Rivez Reihana, Lalomilo Lalomilo.
Force: Chase Tiatia, Zach Kibirge, Sam Spink, Hamish Stewart, Manasa Mataele, Max Burey, Gareth Simpson; Rahboni Vosayaco, Carlo Tizzano, Michael Wells (capt), Izack Rodda, Jeremy Williams, Santiago Medrano, Folau Fainga’a, Angus Warner. Reserves: Tom Horton, Marley Pearce, Siosifa Amone, Felix Kalapu, Tim Anstee, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, George Poolman, Toni Pulu.
If results go the Force’s way before kick-off, the hosts will know if a win would confirm a rare playoff berth and no visiting team has won in Perth in five attempts this season. Former Chief player, Chase Tiatia, will turn out against his old side this time playing for the Force.
PREDICTION.
Even with all their stars rested I think the Chiefs will be too good. This is a perfect opportunity for the Force to grab a win as the combinations in the Chiefs will lead to mistakes. However while it will not effect the Chiefs position at the top of the ladder, a win to the Force could give them position eight, and a playoff spot depending on other results. They currently sit in 9th position. Chiefs by 3 points.
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