Western Force vs Reds Prediction: Pietsch can keep Reds honest
Western Force have produced late shows to beat both Moana Pasifika and the Brumbies in 2025 and are aiming to repeat last March's 40-31 victory over the Reds when they meet in Perth on Saturday.
Read on for my Western Force vs Reds prediction, as well as the latest team news and match odds.
Team News
Force centre Reesjan Pasitoa will make his first appearance in 1,007 days following a combination of knee, elbow and shoulder inquiries that have kept him out since 2022.
Pasitoa's inclusion in the midfield is one of two changes, with experienced lock Sam Carter also coming in.
The Reds have been boosted by the news of Liam Wright's availability. The flanker captained Australia against Wales last year but has been sidelined with a shoulder injury.
He is fit enough to make the bench, while fellow Wallabies Matt Faessler, Zane Nonggorr and Angus Blyth start up front.
Centre Dre Pakeho also gets the nod, while Kiwi recruit Heremaia Murray is at full-back and is joined by Lachie Anderson in the back three
The Force are 2/1 to go three-from-three in 2025, with the Reds 4/9 and a tie 20/1.
Western Force +6 @ 11/10
The Reds finished fifth on the 2024 ladder, five places and 20 points clear of Saturday's opponents.
However, they lost by nine points in Perth before getting revenge with a 46-point success back in Brisbane, one of three defeats in their last four trips out west.
They can improve that record, but expect the Force to push them close.
The likelihood for yellow cards and the home team's penchant for scoring late means this could be closer than expected.
Odds correct at time of publishing.
Dylan Pietsch anytime tryscorer @ 6/5
Winger Dylan Pietsch can play a significant role in keeping his team in touch and he has already scored three tries this season.
The former Sevens ace is now a fully-fledged 15s star and, after making his Wallabies debut last year, will have his eye on facing the British & Irish Lions later this year.
Pietsch was one of several off-season recruits for the Force, switching from the Waratahs, and appears energised by the move.
The 26-year-old also has an excellent record against the Reds, scoring three tries in his last two matches against them.
Odds correct at time of publishing.
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