Rugby WA Coach Sebastian Delport has made seven changes to his starting line-up that will host the Melbourne Rebels in a do-or-die clash at Kingsway Sporting Complex on Sunday afternoon.
In the second row RugbyWA veteran Katie Barnes has retained her position in the lineup, paired up with Pareana Taitoko who earned herself a starting spot after making an immediate impact off the bench against the Queensland Reds two weeks ago.
Another shuffle to the starting line-up see's Cottesloe product Yolanda Forsyth make her first Super W start as she slots into the back-row, in company with the instrumental pairing of Neesha Barrett and Taylah Eastwood who have continued to perform week in week out.
For the third consecutive week the backline remains relatively unchanged, however, young gun Emysen Robinson slots onto the left wing with her pace proving to be influential in the last match scoring herself a try on debut.
Young guns Cara Gleave and Paihau Pomare are another pair to watch coming off the bench, Paihau Pomare will be looking for a huge game this weekend hopefully playing along side her sister Trilleen Pomare for the first time in their career.
Head-Coach Sebastian Delport comes into the match confident after the bye however is well aware that the Rebels have had this fixture circled for a long time.
"The bye week has been very beneficial for the team, having the extra time to rest and recharge has been great, he said."
"It has also given us time to continue to develop our combinations and get clarity for a few players who are changing position for the Rebels game."
"Wanneroo pair Pareana Taitoko and Nadia Smith have continued to have a very positive impact on the squad, they’re hardworking and competitive, and they bring experience and resilience to our set piece which has earn't them both a spot in the starting XV."
"Our rookies continue to go from strength to strength, their work-rate and willingness to apply themselves to developing their craft is excellent."
"We are incredibly proud of their continued growth and look forward to seeing them run out again in front of their family and friends."
The RugbyWA Women will take on the Rebels at Kingsway Reserve this Sunday, March 8, kicking off at 3:30pm AWST, with the match streamed LIVE on RUGBY.com.au and Kayo.
RugbyWA Women's team to face the Melbourne Rebels
1. Sera Ah-Sam [VC]
2. Nadia Smith
3. Frieda Ah-Sam
4. Katie Barnes
5. Pareana Taitoko
6. Yolanda Forsyth
7. Taylah Eastwood
8. Neesha Barrett
9. Aiysha Wigley
10. Trilleen Pomare [C]
11. Emysen Robinson
12. Ariana Hira-Herangi
13. Taj Heald
14. Claudia Nielsen
15. Dallys Tini
Reserves
16. Darryl Wickliffe
17. Hineana Dando
18. Raewyn Tuheke
19. Chrystal Asiata
20. Rebecca Clough
21. Moana Paul
22. Paihau Pomare
23. Cara Gleave
