By RugbyWA Media

David Smith
Skipper Nathan Sharpe believes the try line could see plenty of action on Saturday night as two talented sets of backs go head to head when the Emirates Western Force and Blues clash at nib Stadium.

Some of the most mouth-watering match-ups will be on the wings where Emirates Western Force marquee David Smith, a former Blues player, and Alfie Mafi battle All Blacks Rene Ranger and Jo Rokocoko.

However the action won’t be restricted to the backs with Sharpe identifying the desire of both sides to make attacking forays through their forward packs.

“We’re playing a very strong Blues side so we’re very aware of the challenges ahead of us but like anything in life, the harder the challenge the greater the reward,” Sharpe said at today’s Captain’s Run.

“The Blues are renowned for their counter attacking ability so we’ll work hard on nullifying that. We spoke about it during the week and have worked on our counter attack defence.

“At the same time they have pretty handy forwards that can really punch holes through the lines so we’ve got to be tight around the rucks as well,” Sharpe said.

While reigning John Eales medallist David Pocock will miss the match through injury Sharpe is confident the depth in the West Aussie’s backrow will provide more than adequate cover.

“You approach Saturday night as you normally would and you give everything you possibly can and you worry about the medical results at the end of the game,” said Sharpe.

“You know Pocock is a very good player and we’re going to miss him at certain stages of the year but I don’t see it being a massive impact for us this week.

Adding to the club’s desire to notch their first win of the season are milestones for inaugural players Cameron Shepherd and Richard Brown.

“The guys are excited, Brownie and Shep play their 50th game this week so you always like to make those games special milestones for those guys individually but also collectively,” said Sharpe.

“We were disappointed with last weekend’s match at our home stadium so this weekend is a great opportunity for us to turn that around and get the result we’re looking for.”

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