Force move on Ripia
The Western Force are chasing New Zealand Maori and Hurricanes fly-half Willie Ripia as their all-important playmaker for the new Super rugby competition.
Ripia was a hero of the Maori's famous win over Ireland on Friday, slotting a late penalty to give his side a 31-28 victory.
The Force are also keeping a close watch on "Baby Bok" fly-half Josias Ebersohn, who is with the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein and another New Zealander, Mike Harris, from North Harbour.
The Force, have already spoken to the Australian Rugby Union about signing Ripia, 24, and Ebersohn, 20, who both qualify as overseas developing players, leaving the Force with its marquee spot still open.
Harris, 21, is eligible to play for Australia through his family background.
"Willie has shown interest. He is our most experienced option," Force chief executive Vern Reid said.
"He's a Quade Cooper type, not your typical No. 10. He kicks goals, has a good boot but he also has flair and offers that little bit extra. He has that X factor."
Australian Super clubs are allowed two overseas players - a marquee player who has represented his country at senior level can sign for one year and a developing player who must commit to Australian rugby for three years and make himself available to the Australian Rugby Union.
The Force are faced with two scenarios.
If they sign an overseas marquee fly-half - and the door has not closed on last year's signing Andre Pretorius - the second string would likely be an overseas development player.
If Ripia or Ebersohn were picked up as their first-choice playmaker, the Force would opt for an Australian player as second string.
·The RugbyWA board meets tonight and is expected to ratify the new coach who will succeed John Mitchell in the 2012 season.
The favourite for the position is current Force and Wallabies assistant coach Richard Graham.
