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Emirates Western Force Coach Richard Graham has made just one forced change to his match-day 22 with winger Samu Wara, who picked up a hamstring strain last weekend, replaced by the club’s all-time leading point scorer Cameron Shepherd.
Shepherd has been selected on the reserves bench and will be called upon to impose himself on the game in the latter stages having recovered from an adductor strain. Versatile performer Rory Sidey moves into the outside backs in place of Wara.
The forward pack that has serviced the Emirates Western force so well this season remains untouched and their battle against a tough NSW outfit will again be a pivotal factor in the outcome of the clash.
The selection headaches that both camps had leading into the corresponding fixture a month ago is in stark contrast to the settled line-ups being taken into a derby encounter that will have a big bearing on the fortunes of both sides in a packed Australian Conference.
“In essence this is an 8 point game given we have an opportunity to get four points this week and the bye next week,” Graham said.
Having already played all of their intestate rivals away from home the Emirates Western Force will be hoping to make it two from two against their fellow countrymen at nib Stadium after disposing of the reigning FxPro Super Rugby champion Reds a fortnight ago.
Despite missing the points against an in-form Chiefs side last weekend the mood in the camp has been upbeat and Graham said everyone is eager to translate a solid week on the training track into a winning performance.
“The majority of our focus his week has remained on ourselves and how we can get better and ensure a strong performance in front of our home supporters,” said Graham.
“One of the things that will allow that to happen is consistency in selection. It is unfortunate that Sammy has picked up a mild strain but I’m confident that Rory will be able to do a very good job on the wing.
“Finding a balance in our attack is a key area and will assist in getting a result here in Perth.”
While the Emirates Western Force has defeated the Waratahs twice and drawn once in previous encounters but have yet to taste victory in WA, something they’re determined to rectify come Friday night.
2012 FxPro Super Rugby – Week 8
Emirates Western Force v Waratahs
Friday, 13 April 2012 at nib Stadium
Kick-off: 7.10pm (AWST)
1. Pek Cowan
2. Nathan Charles
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Toby Lynn
5. Nathan Sharpe
6. Richard Brown
7. David Pocock (Captain)
8. Matt Hodgson
9. Brett Sheehan
10. Ben Seymour
11. Alfie Mafi
12. Winston Stanley
13. Nick Cummins
14. Rory Sidey
15. David Harvey
Reserves
16. Elvis Taione
17. Kieran Longbottom
18. Phoenix Battye
19. Ben McCalman
20. Josh Holmes
21. Cameron Shepherd
22. Patrick Dellit