George Bridge Targets Season Turnaround for Western Force in Napier Clash
Former All Black George Bridge is set for a nostalgic return to Hawke's Bay this Friday, aiming to use the familiar surroundings to revitalise the Western Force's struggling Super Rugby Pacific season. The Force, with three losses in their first four games, face a critical test against the Hurricanes at McLean Park, a venue just minutes from Bridge's old school, Lindisfarne College.
Homecoming Amid High Stakes
Bridge, 30, expressed excitement about playing near his roots, noting that his family has booked a tent for the match. "It's a pretty social week for me, but I've obviously got to focus on the footy as well," he said. The game is pivotal for the Force, who seek to bounce back from a frustrating 39-31 loss to the Highlanders last week. Bridge acknowledged the team's disappointment, emphasising their high standards and desire for consistent results.
Bridge's Impact and New Role
Since joining the Force, Bridge has made an immediate impact, scoring two tries and showcasing defensive prowess. This season, coach Simon Cron has deployed him primarily at outside centre, leveraging his tackling skills in midfield. "I've been really enjoying it so far," Bridge commented, highlighting the increased physicality and faster pace compared to his time in France's Top 14 with Montpellier.
Mentoring Zac Lomax
Beyond the immediate challenge, Bridge is committed to assisting star recruit Zac Lomax, a former NSW State of Origin rugby league player set to join the club. As an experienced outside back, Bridge views this as an exciting opportunity to help Lomax adapt to rugby union. "It's going to be a reasonably big job to get him up to date with everything, which is an exciting challenge," he said, praising Lomax's athleticism and potential contribution to the team.
Looking Ahead
The Force hope a victory against the Hurricanes can provide momentum heading into their bye week and foster growth for the remainder of the season. Bridge remains optimistic, stressing the importance of learning from each game and building on small improvements. With family and friends cheering him on, this homecoming could mark a turning point in the Force's campaign.
