The return of Fijian wingers Suliasi Vunivalu and Henry Speight for Wests has provided a significant boost ahead of the major semi-final against Brothers on Saturday. Vunivalu’s comeback from a knee injury and Speight’s brief recovery from a hamstring issue adds depth to the team as they prepare to face the reigning champions at GPS Rugby Club in a clash of StoreLocal Hospital Cup contenders.
With Moses Sorovi called into the Fijian Test squad to play as halfback, Wests had to reconfigure their backline. Mason Gordon will move from fullback to the No.10 position, while Mosese Dawai will transition from wing to fullback. Wests coach Elwee Prinsloo expressed confidence in this adjustment, citing Gordon’s earlier performance at flyhalf during the season.
Heading into the finals, the Bulldogs are on a seven-game winning streak; however, Prinsloo cautions that the playoffs represent a fresh challenge. He acknowledged the significance of their July victory over Brothers, noting that such past successes have no bearing on the present situation. He recognizes Brothers’ dominance in the league, indicating a respect for their achievements.
Brothers are also making adjustments; James O’Connor has been training with the team for two weeks and has cleared safety protocols following a head injury. He will take on the No.10 role as an experienced playmaker. Paddy James will switch to fullback, and Bas Hanna will replace the injured Tim Ryan on the wing. In the forwards, Ryan Smith will start, with Hamish Muller moving from lock to flanker, and Noah Nielsen providing energy off the bench.
Brothers coach Ben McCormack has observed a notable shift in his players’ mentality with the finals approaching. He acknowledged Wests’ previous win but emphasized the distinct nature of this upcoming match.