Force have pride on the line in Australian derbies

The next three Super Rugby clashes, all Australian derbies, have become very personal affairs for Western Force as they look to avenge early-season losses.

With little to play for except avoiding the wooden spoon and regaining some pride, the Force will start by taking out their frustration on the Queensland Reds at nib Stadium on Saturday night.

The Force are propping up the ladder, two points adrift of the Reds. They face the Brumbies at home the following Friday night before travelling to Melbourne for the final match of the season against the Rebels seven days later.

Force and Wallabies prop Pek Cowan said the trio of games would bring plenty of private battles.

“You don’t like to lose a derby game. For us there’s a bit of revenge and we’re making it very personal,” Cowan said.

“There’s no better way to take out a bit of frustration than to play against guys that you know.

“There will be individual battles within the team, but the team result is the ultimate goal.

“We love playing the Reds and we’re looking forward to it. It’s going to be a physical battle and one that we are going to have to make sure we are up for.

“They back their pack and play to their strengths.

“Their scrum is good, their mauling is great and they love to play a tight game so we’ve got our work cut out.

“They are making really good gains off the forward pack.”