Western Force vs Brumbies Prediction: Force no match for charging Brumbies

Victory for the Crusaders on Friday means Western Force are unlikely to be heading to the Super Rugby Pacific finals this season as they prepare for what looks set to be their final game against the Brumbies on Saturday morning (10:35 kick-off). 

Some heavy defeats in recent weeks for the Force have seen the Perth outfit drop down to 10th place in the standings. In order to make the finals they would need a bonus-point win on Saturday and the Rebels to do them a favour against Fijian Drua. 

Against a Brumbies side who are serious contenders to win the Super Rugby Pacific title this season, a one-sided encounter looks to be on the cards at HBF Park this weekend. 

Team News 

Starting with the Force, skipper Jeremy Williams reverts to the back row to make way for the returning Australian lock Sam Carter, who has recovered from a hamstring injury. 

In disappointing news, Wallabies fly-half Ben Donaldson has been ruled out due to a groin issue, meaning Max Burey has been handed the No.10 jersey for the weekend.  

With the Brumbies pushing for a top-two finish, head coach Stephen Larkham has made just two changes to his starting XV from last week's 53-17 win over the Melbourne Rebels. 

Blake Schoupp returns to loosehead prop for the injured James Slipper, while Rory Scott comes back into the side at openside flanker. 

Western Force vs Brumbies Odds 

Western Force are the underdogs at 9/5 to claim the win in Perth this weekend, while the Brumbies are 1/2 favourites. A draw at HBF Park is available at 18/1, while the Force are currently 7/5 to be leading at half-time. 

Brumbies to win by over 12 points @ 9/5  

The Force's defence continues to be a major source of frustration for head coach Simon Cron, who has seen his side concede 402 points this season at an average of 30.9 per game. 

With just four victories in their 13 games this year, only rock-bottom NSW Waratahs have won fewer than Western Force this season. 

Meanwhile, the Brumbies sit just three points off the Blues and Hurricanes, who are level at the top of the table. 

In recent weeks the Force have suffered a 56-7 defeat to the Chiefs and a 59-13 loss to the Reds in their last outing. 

A strong start from the Brumbies should see the Canberra outfit triumph by over 12 points in this one. 

Over 52.5 total points @ 5/6

Given the Force's defensive frailties, over 52.5 total points is worthy of consideration on Saturday morning. The last four meetings between the Force and the Brumbies have seen an average of 55.75 points scored per game. 

Both sides have attacking threats and another high-scoring affair could well be on the cards in Perth. 

Rugby Union Betting Tips from Betfred Insights.