Home practice for the Force
Western Force will host two pre-season trials against the ACT Brumbies on Friday January 23 and the Asia Pacific Dragons eight days later on Saturday January 31 in the lead-in to the club’s 10th Super Rugby season.
Both matches will be played at UWA Sports Park in Mount Claremont.
The Force kick off their season on Sunday February 15 against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney.
They have previously played the Brumbies, 2014 Super Rugby semi-finalists, in 2010, 2012 and 2013 trials.
The Dragons, coached by All Blacks legend Tana Umaga, is made up of players currently playing in Japan.
Internationals stars like George Gregan, Toutai Kefu, George Smith, Justin Marshall, Jerry Collins, Mils Muiliana, Seilala Mapasua and Rupeni Caucaunibuca have all played for the Dragons.
Force coach Michael Foley said the matches would be an important hit-out ahead of the Super Rugby season.
"The Brumbies and Asia Pacific Dragons will provide strong opposition for us to finalise our preparations ahead of the season," Foley said.
"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.”
“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."
