Western Force snatch last-gasp pre-season trial win over Queensland Reds

Western Force’s last-gasp try condemned the Queensland Reds to a 21-19 defeat in their pre-season trial in Perth.

The Reds led the contest 19-14 on Friday night before Force No.8 Titi Nofoagatotoa’s try followed by Justin Landman’s conversion secured the hosts’ victory at Scotch College.

Playing the match in three 30-minute periods allowed the Reds to play with 29 players.

Back-rower John Bryant was the only Queensland player to be on the field for 90 matches.

minute.

His star player of the off-season, Wallabies fly-half Carter Gordon, started on the bench and then came on for Harry McLaughlin-Phillips for the final 50 minutes of the competition.

The Reds scored the opening try of the match through lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, followed by tries from Brandon Paenga-Amosa and Darby Lancaster who both converted to give the Force a 14-7 lead.

Queensland responded with efforts from James Martens and Bryant to build a five-point lead before Force’s late heroics ensured the Reds tasted defeat.

The Reds play another trial against the NSW Waratahs in Ballymore next Saturday.

The same two teams will meet at Allianz Stadium on February 13 in the opening round of the Super Rugby Pacific season.