McMeniman on his way back

Editor

Western Force lock Hugh McMeniman is set to return to action from a shoulder injury in trial matches on Friday.

Western Force lock Hugh McMeniman is set to return to action from a shoulder injury in trial matches on Friday.

The Perth-based outfit host Argentina's Pampas XV and Samoa A and McMeniman, who underwent shoulder surgery during 2013, is set to start at lock during the Force A match against Samoa A, with the Western Force to tackle Argentina's Pampas XV in the main game.

The Western Force starting XV is set to feature five of the squad's new recruits, including home-grown Perth products Ollie Hoskins and Zack Holmes, former Emerging Springbok lock Wilhelm Steenkamp, former Western Province outside back Marcel Brache and ex-Queensland Reds and Wallabies flyer Luke Morahan, who scored a double in last week's trial win over Samoa A.

Matt Hodgson will captain the side that also features Wallabies number eight Ben McCalman and wing Nick Cummins.

The Force will be looking to build upon last week's 69-3 win over Samoa A as they take to the newly resurfaced nib Stadium for the first time in 2014.

The Pampas XV will use the match as part of their preparations for the 2014 Pacific Nations Cup, with their 30-man squad including 18 players with international Test experience.

Western Force head coach Michael Foley said both the Pampas XV and Samoa A will provide strong competition for the club ahead of its opening match of the Super Rugby season against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney on Sunday, 23 February.

“Last week was a good start and it's important that we step it up again this week,” he told the Western Force's official website.

“We're most pleased with the discipline we displayed under challenging circumstances.

“There were noticeable improvements in our contact and game understanding, and it's important we continue to focus on the detail required to ensure we're making the most of the opportunities we create.

“While our attitude in defence was very good, we appreciate that the Pampas XV and Samoa A, with a game under their belt, will pose a far greater challenge this week.”