The Force will host two pre-season fixtures in Perth against the Brumbies (Friday 23 January) and the Asia Pacific Dragons (Saturday 31 January) in the lead-in to the club’s 10th Super Rugby season.
Both matches will be played at McGillivray Oval in Mount Claremont.
The two matches will give the passionate ‘Sea of Blue’ their opportunity to see the Force in action prior to their season-opener against the Waratahs in Sydney on Sunday 15 February.
The Western Australians will open their pre-season campaign against the Brumbies, who contested last year’s Semi Finals. The Force has previously played pre-season matches against the Brumbies in 2010, 2012 and 2013.
The second fixture will feature the Asia Pacific Dragons, an invitational side to be coached by All Blacks legend Tana Umaga, made up of players currently playing in Japan.
The Dragons’ line-up has previously featured the likes of Test players George Gregan, Toutai Kefu, George Smith, Justin Marshall, Jerry Collins, Mils Muiliana, Seilala Mapasua and Rupeni Caucaunibuca.
Head Coach Michael Foley says the matches will an important final hit-out ahead of the Super Rugby season.
“There was a great atmosphere during the Perth Spirit match at McGillivray Oval earlier this year and we’re looking forward to playing both pre-season matches in front of our fans in Perth,” he said.
“The Brumbies and Asia Pacific Dragons will provide strong opposition for us to finalise our preparations ahead of the season. The Brumbies have been the pace-setters in the Australian Conference over the past three seasons, while the Dragons will also test us with a number of players familiar to Super Rugby and Test rugby set to be involved.
“This season presents a new challenge for the team and the club as we look to back up last season’s step forward.”
Ticketing information for both matches will be available next month.
2015 Force Pre-Season Fixtures:
- Friday 23 January vs Brumbies – McGillivray Oval, Mt Claremont, Perth (Kick-Off at 17:00 AWST)
- Saturday 31 January vs Asia Pacific Dragons – McGillivray Oval, Mt Claremont, Perth (Kick-Off at 17:00 AWST)