The NSW Waratahs Women's team have identified “discipline” and “ball control” as key areas to focus on for their Round 2 Super Rugby Women’s clash against the Western Force at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park on Saturday.
The match also features in another double-header at Allianz Stadium, with the NSW Waratahs men playing the Western Force after in their Super Rugby Pacific Round 4 clash.
The NSW Waratahs Women will also wear pink jerseys for this game on International Women’s Day to raise awareness and funds for platinum partner, Sydney Breast Cancer Foundation.
NSW Waratahs Women's Head coach Mike Ruthven and flyhalf Arabella McKenzie reflected on their opening round loss to the Fijian Drua at Allianz Stadium last Friday when talking to media today.
Ruthven highlighted key areas the team needs to refine, including discipline and ball control.
While he said their preparation had been strong, he acknowledged that rugby is an unpredictable game, and results do not always go as planned.
However, he emphasized that the competition is getting stronger, making it imperative for the Waratahs to be at their best every game.
“We’ve had a really good review process and time to reflect,” Ruthven said.
“The most pleasing thing is knowing that the areas we fell short in are well within our control.
“We need to tidy up some discipline and ball control, but we’re confident in our ability to fix these issues.”
McKenzie, who missed the match due to concussion, is eager to return and make an impact.
She expressed pride in how the team adapted in her absence, particularly with younger players stepping up.
However, she acknowledged that experience was a missing factor in their previous match, and having key players return this week will significantly strengthen the team.
“It was frustrating to watch from the sidelines, but I was really proud of the girls,” McKenzie said.
“Some players were in unfamiliar positions, and we had a few debuts, so the lack of experience showed.
“But we’ve had a strong week of training, and we’re focused on getting back to the Waratahs’ way—winning and putting on good performances.”
The NSW Waratahs Women are set to welcome back several experienced players from injury, including Piper Duck (AC) and Desi Miller (concussion).
Ruthven believes they will bring much-needed composure and leadership to the squad.
He also underscored the importance of consistency in such a short competition, where dropping matches can be costly.
“In a four-round competition, you can’t afford to be off your game,” Ruthven stated.
“It’s not about pressure but about the importance of playing good rugby every week. We need to build momentum now.”
McKenzie also touched on adjusting to a new halfback partnership following the move of long-time teammate Layne Morgan to the Queensland Reds.
While Morgan’s absence is a challenge, she expressed confidence in working with Tatum Bird and Tiarne Cavanagh, both of whom bring unique strengths to the team.
“Lane is a big loss, but I’ve played with Tatum and Tiarne before, and they bring different qualities to our game,” McKenzie said.
“It’s just about building that combination and utilizing their strengths.”
Looking at the Western Force, Ruthven acknowledged their significant roster development and strong recruitment.
However, he emphasized that talent alone does not guarantee success, and the Waratahs will treat them with the same level of respect as any other opponent.
“The Force has recruited well, and it’s great to see talent spread across the competition,” he said.
“But recruitment doesn’t always translate to on-field performance. We’re expecting a tough contest.”
At Allianz Stadium, 8 March 2025
NSW Waratahs Women v Western Force
Kick-off: 5:05 pm
NSW Waratahs v Western Force
Kick-off: 7.35 pm
To purchase your tickets, click HERE
The game will be televised Live, ad-free and on-demand on Stan Sport – The Home of Rugby
