Western Force Star Tom Robertson Says Mood at Club Is Calm Despite Pair of Early Losses
Western Force star Tom Robertson has insisted the mood within his side is calm and composed, despite their Super Rugby Pacific campaign kicking off with a pair of defeats. The Force fell to the Blues 42-32 in Joondalup on Saturday, following a 56-24 thumping from the Brumbies in their season opener.
Focus on Discipline and Upcoming Road Trip
Robertson, who is gearing up for his 50th game for the Force, highlighted that there are "no massive holes" in the team's early performances. However, he pointed out that ill-discipline when exiting their own end has been a critical issue. "Whilst that's only a small thing, it's hurting us in a lot of games. There's a few things like that we can fix up," he said.
Reflecting on the recent match, Robertson noted, "If you look at the weekend, if we didn't give away those penalties, it's probably two or three tries we don't let in, and then we're at different end of the scoreboard." He emphasized that it is not panic stations for the team, with a focus on making small adjustments as they head into a challenging three-game road trip to New Zealand.
Upcoming Challenges and Team Spirit
The Force will begin their road trip with a clash against Moana Pasifika in Auckland on Friday, followed by matches against the Highlanders and Hurricanes. Robertson expressed optimism about the tour, stating, "It's going to be a tough three weeks, but a good chance for us to get away as a group, galvanise, and get around the boys off the field as well. We're really looking forward to it and there's a great chance to kick-start our season."
Robertson's Study Sabbatical and Personal Growth
In a personal aside, Robertson took a break from rugby last year to go on a study sabbatical at Oxford University as a John Monash Scholar, where he earned a masters degree in public policy. He shared, "I'm everything but a doctor at the moment — I've got an undergraduate and three masters degrees, but I haven't finished the actual doctorate yet."
He added that the experience made him appreciate rugby more, saying, "I got away from rugby for a little bit and then it made me really appreciate what we have here at the Western Force and in Australian rugby. I'm very grateful to the Western Force for allowing me to do that." Robertson believes that having distractions outside of rugby helps his performance, noting, "It's always been a good thing, having those things to distract me from the rugby field. I'm playing my best when I've got something else to do."
Connection to Western Australia
Originally from New South Wales and having started his Super Rugby career with the Waratahs, Robertson now feels a strong bond with Western Australia. He explained, "My first-born son was born in Perth, so we call this place home and I'm really appreciative of the Force for giving me the opportunity to come over." This personal connection adds depth to his commitment to the team as they navigate the early season challenges.
