Ben Donaldson Seals Western Force's Twentieth Season Opener In Style
Ben Donaldson Seals Western Force's Twentieth Season Opener In Style
A thrilling Super Rugby Pacific opener saw the Western Force battle back in dramatic fashion against Moana Pasifika, sealing a last-gasp victory at HBF Park
Ben Donaldson produced a moment of individual brilliance to secure a thrilling 2025 Super Rugby Pacific round-one victory for the Western Force over Moana Pasifika, capping off a dramatic late comeback at HBF Park.
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With the Force trailing deep into stoppage time, Donaldson found himself in open space on the right wing after a lengthy sequence of play. In a stunning burst of speed, he evaded the Moana Pasifika defence and crossed under the posts, completing a remarkable 26-phase movement that started well inside the Force’s own half. He then slotted the conversion, sealing a dramatic win in front of an ecstatic home crowd.
The match had been a back-and-forth contest, with Moana Pasifika seizing early control by scoring the first two tries. The Force struggled to gain a foothold but eventually broke onto the scoreboard with a penalty, only for Moana Pasifika’s fullback, Garden-Bachop, to respond with a drop goal. The hosts then found their rhythm, crossing the line twice to level the game before another exchange of tries kept the contest even as halftime approached. A late penalty by William Havili saw Moana Pasifika take a slender lead into the break.
The second half continued in a similar fashion, with both sides exchanging scores. However, Moana Pasifika looked to have taken control with two quick tries in the final 10 minutes, opening up a sizeable advantage. The Force, undeterred, responded with a try from Dylan Pietsch following sustained pressure inside the opposition’s 22, setting the stage for the breathtaking finish.
Defensive resilience was tested throughout, particularly for the Force, who endured waves of Moana Pasifika attacks deep in their own territory. Repeated infringements resulted in a yellow card warning, and their scrum struggled under pressure, conceding multiple penalties. Moana Pasifika capitalised on a one-man advantage, crossing twice during that period. However, the Force managed to keep themselves within reach, even as they faced significant adversity.
Then came the decisive moment. With the clock in the red and possession shifting across the width of the field, Donaldson found an opening, slicing through the Moana Pasifika line with blistering pace to score the match-winner. His conversion ensured the Force completed one of the most thrilling turnarounds in recent memory, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.
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