Alcock returns for milestone game
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Flank Chris Alcock returns to the starting line-up for the Western Force’s clash against the Stormers at the NIB Stadium on Saturday in his 50th appearance.
The 26-year-old fetcher will run out for his 50th Super Rugby match, having played 25 for the Waratahs, and 24 for the Force since joining the franchise ahead of the 2013 season.
Alcock replaces Kane Koteka, who has been sidelined after suffering concussion in last weekend’s match against the Cheetahs, while the remainder of the starting XV is the same.
On the bench, local product and former Australian Under-20 representative Ross Haylett-Petty is set to make his Super Rugby debut.
Coach Michael Foley says Saturday marks another strong challenge for his side.
“As with any South African opponent, it’s important that we’re up for the physical challenge in defence and at the breakdown, which has been a feature of our performances in our past three matches,” he said.
“While playing physically is a foundation, we have to play smart to finish off the effort that’s being put in every week.
"When ‘decision making’ is mentioned, it’s easy to assume there’s a level of complexity, but it’s a simple focus on firstly creating momentum and secondly playing with awareness to take opportunities we’re creating.
“Saturday marks a notable milestone for Chris in his 50th match.
"Chris has been an excellent team man and on field performer for the club over the past three seasons.
"Like all our openside flanks, he loves rolling his sleeves up and getting his hands on the ball in attack and defence, and I know that all the boys will rip in to contribute to a memorable occasion for him on Saturday.”
Western Force: 15 Dane Haylett-Petty, 14 Luke Morahan, 13 Kyle Godwin, 12 Luke Burton, 11 Nick Cummins, 10 Sias Ebersohn, 9 Alby Mathewson, 8 Ben McCalman, 7 Chris Alcock, 6 Steve Mafi, 5 Adam Coleman, 4 Sam Wykes (c), 3 Tetera Faulkner, 2 Nathan Charles, 1 Pekahou Cowan.Replacements: 16 Heath Tessmann, 17 Chris Heiberg, 18 Oliver Hoskins, 19 Ross Haylett-Petty, 20 Angus Cottrell, 21 Ian Prior, 22 Zack Holmes, 23 Marcel Brache.
Date: Saturday, April 18
Venue: NIB Stadium, Perth
Kick-off: 19.45 (13.45 SAST, 11.45 GMT)
Referee: Mike Fraser
Assistant referees: Andrew Lees, Will Houston
TMO: Ian Smith
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