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Tai McIsaac will captain a young Emirates Western Force squad
Thursday, January 19, 2006
from: RugbyWA
Emirates Western Force coach John Mitchell has named his squad for Saturday's trial match against the Cheetahs at Subiaco Oval, with 19 of the 27 players making their first appearance at Super 12/Super 14 level.
Of the eight players with Super 12 experience, only locks John Welborn and David Pusey, and prop Angus Scott have played more than 20 games at that standard.
The selections highlight one of the main reasons for introducing a fourth Australian team in the competition - to give young men an opportunity that was previously limited.
Mitchell said the pre-season games were a great opportunity to give the uninitiated exposure to the pace and intensity of Super 14 rugby.
"It is fantastic that our players are getting a hit-out. Their work ethic and enthusiasm during pre-season have been unquestionable. They will be looking forward to seizing this opportunity," he said.
Mitchell said the trials were a starting point from which the group would build its momentum. "We are looking forward to their response."
The squad is (in alphabetical order): Richard Brown, Vitori Buatava, Pek Cowan, Scott Daruda, Tim Davidson (VC) Gavin Debartolo, Josh Fuimaono, Josh Graham, Gareth Hardy, James Hilgendorf, Matt Hodgson, Luke Holmes, Brock James, Tajhon Mailata, Tai McIsaac (C), David Te Moana, Pat O'Connor, Chris O'Young, Alexander Peden, David Pusey, Haig Sare, Angus Scott, Brett Stapleton, Ben Ward, John Welborn, AJ Whalley, Matt Windle
*Junior Pelesasa, Lachlan MacKay and Luke Doherty were not considered for selection because of injury.
**Nathan Sharpe, Brendan Cannon, Scott Fava, David Fitter, Matt Henjak, Digby Ioane, Scott Staniforth and Cameron Shepherd were not considered for selection.
Kick-off is at 7pm.