Force adds Wallaby muscle for Highlanders showdown
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Western Force continue their inaugural Super Rugby Trans-Tasman campaign on Friday, when they go head-to-head with the high-flying Highlanders in Perth.
Coach Tim Sampson has named a consistent side with just one change being made to the matchday 23.
Wallaby lock Sitaleki Timani makes his return from a minor leg injury after missing the Trans-Tasman season opener against the Chiefs.
Tim Anstee shows his versatility, as he makes his first start playing at No.8, with the experienced Brynard Stander moving to the bench.
The rest of the side remains the same, with Henry Taefu maintaining his place at inside centre after a strong display in Round One.
It's set to be an intriguing duel at scrumhalf, with milestone man Tomás Cubelli, who will be making his 50th Super Rugby appearance on Friday, facing off with a familiar foe in All Black star and Highlanders talisman Aaron Smith once again.
The world-class duo go head-to-head after some memorable battles in the Rugby Championships last year and throughout their careers on the international and Super Rugby stage.
Sampson is expecting another entertaining game in Perth.
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"Like all New Zealand teams, the Highlanders are threatening when you give them a lot of time and space. If you turn over the ball cheaply, they'll take advantage," Sampson explained.
"They play a direct game. They rely a lot on their number nine Aaron Smith to create opportunities for them. They're a disciplined team and they take their opportunities.
"Momentum is important. When we do gain ascendency, we get that nice bit of momentum to put the foot down."
Western Force: 15 Rob Kearney, 14 Richard Kahui, 13 Kyle Godwin (captain), 12 Henry Taefu, 11 Jordan Olowofela, 10 Jake McIntyre, 9 Tomás Cubelli, 8 Tim Anstee, 7 Kane Koteka, 6 Fergus Lee-Warner, 5 Sitaleki Timani, 4 Jeremy Thrush, 3 Santiago Medrano, 2 Feleti Kaitu'u, 1 Tom Robertson.
Replacements: 16 Andrew Ready, 17 Angus Wagner, 18 Greg Holmes, 19 Ryan McCauley, 20 Brynard Stander, 21 Ian Prior, 22 Domingo Miotti, 23 Jake Strachan.
Date: Friday, May 21
Venue: Perth Oval, Perth
Kick-off: 17.45 (21.45 NZ time; 09.45 GMT)
Referee: Nic Berry
Assistant referees: Amy Perrett, Reuben Keane
TMO: James Leckie