In a stunning victory over the Crusaders, Western Force secured only their second Super Rugby Pacific win this year, and much of the credit goes to their newest signing, Kurtley Beale, according to his coach and teammates. Kurtley Beale’s Impact: Western Force’s Super Return with New Franchise Star
Beale, who arrived in Perth from Sydney just a week and a half ago, stepped up to cover a roster spot for the Force’s final six matches and potentially the quarter-finals, surprising many with his immediate impact.
Despite Western Force holding a 2-6 win/loss record and sitting eleventh on the table, Beale’s presence on the field as fullback was instrumental in controlling his new team’s attack and defense, drawing on his extensive experience with the NSW Waratahs over several stints.
Returning to rugby union after more than a year, Beale, a Darug and Kamilaroi man, showed glimpses of his brilliance, showcasing his skills with ball in hand after dedicated training following his recent trial acquittal.
Force coach Simon Cron was thrilled to have secured Beale, especially after other Super Rugby sides, including the Waratahs, didn’t reach out to him for a last-minute deal ahead of the 2024 season.
“Watching him at training, he just glides, his timing,” Cron said. “But also what he gives to our boys is experience and chat. I just don’t think you can underestimate what he does with his voice.”
Force captain Nic White echoed Cron’s sentiments, praising Beale’s communication skills during his first game for the Force as “phenomenal”.
“It would have been easy for him to be quiet, as he’s new to this whole system. But he just stepped straight to being a real leader,” White said.
Beale’s influence extended to younger players like flyhalf Ben Donaldson, who felt guided by Beale’s experience throughout the match.
“He’s been here for a week and a half, so not long, but he’s come into the group, real chirpy, chatting to the boys, giving us all of his experience and he was just awesome tonight,” Donaldson said.
While the Force celebrated their win, lock Izack Rodda highlighted the significance of Beale’s return to rugby for the Indigenous veteran.
“He was massive for us and has come in and only had like a week’s training,” Rodda said. “He was up to the speed and performed well – really, I was just so happy for him.”
Beale’s rapid integration into the team and immediate impact on the field bodes well for the Force’s future matches and underscores the value of experienced players in mentoring and leading younger talent. As the Force aims for further success in the Super Rugby Pacific season, Beale’s leadership and skill will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their journey.
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Source: https://nit.com.au/22-04-2024/10946/beale-inspires-force-to-super-rugby-win
