Five things we learnt from Western Force - Blues

Sat, Feb 21, 2026, 10:30 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson

The Blues powered their way home in the second half for a decisive 42-32 win over the Western Force.

The Force took the game north of Perth to Joondalup, but the new surroundings couldn't inspire a win as they head on the road, hungry for success.

Watch every second of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season live and on demand via Stan Sport.

So what did we learn?

1. Breaks killing Force momentum

In two matches in a row, the Force have been caught out after a key break in the game.

It was a heat break against the ACT Brumbies and now the half-time break as the Blues stung them twice in the first ten minutes of the second half.

The two tries ultimately proved the difference and allowed the visitors to stay one step ahead for the rest of the game.

The Force were under pressure early but were in a great position for a rare Blues win before they were overrun and never found a way to answer the points.

It was a step up from last week but still lacking the complete performance.

It shows you can never afford to clock off at Super Rugby level.

2. Power game delivers

The Blues’ ascendancy in the collision zone was the deciding factor in a much needed win.

They monstered the Force up front and came away with points with nearly every carry inside the 22.

Their back-rowers were dominant, with Torian Barnes impressive off the bench.

It’s a vital win as they continue their road trip against the ACT Brumbies next weekend, with the Crusaders to follow 

3. Crucial road trip awaits 

Simon Cron’s side will be banking on an old-fashioned road trip to kick-start their season; otherwise, their finals hopes are in big trouble.

The Force will have been hoping to nab at least one win before they travel to New Zealand to face Moana Pasifika, the Highlanders, and the Hurricanes.

However, it becomes imperative that they rid themselves of their past away demons if they are to live up to the expectations.

They need the likes of Dylan Pietsch and Nick Champion de Crespigny back as soon as possible.

4. Coach killer

The period between the 67th and 69th minute summed up a frustrating afternoon for the Force.

They did so well to get back in the game through Bayley Kuenzle but couldn’t control the kick-off, watching it bounce into touch.

From here, they gave away the short arm after overthrowing the lineout.

Jeremy Williams nailed it after the game, saying their ill-discipline cost them dearly, with this period compounded by early penalties that forced them down a man in the first quarter and poor kicking decisions inside the Blues' 22.

5. More different grounds

The background of families on the hill in sunny WA painted a wonderful picture and showed why Super Rugby should expand from its traditional grounds.

It created a new dynamic as the Blues ran out through the old school fenced-in tunnel as both teams dealt with the famous Fremantle doctor, causing havoc for the kickers.

The benefit of moves like this (even though it was forced by the Asian Cup) is wide-ranging, further than just providing a new community access to world-class talent.

The atmosphere becomes much more unique at the smaller grounds, as seen with the Waratahs at Leichhardt Oval in 2021-22, with Test-sized venues often half-full at best unless for massive finals or derby games.

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