The Western Force have ended a 13-game losing streak after grinding out a 13-5 win over the Rebels in their Super W clash in Melbourne.
The Force's last victory in the competition was in 2019, also against the Rebels at AAMI Park, and skipper Trilleen Pomare said it was a relief to break the drought.
In greasy conditions with intermittent showers, tries proved tough to come by for both teams.
After a penalty gave the visitors a 3-0 lead, Force winger Martha Mataele extended it by five when she bumped off several Rebels defenders to cross in the 33rd minute.
They were rewarded soon after when five-eighth Chanelle Kohika-Skipper put a kick through into the in-goal and winger Kerri Johnson won the race to the ball.
Reserve hooker Hera-Barb Malcolm Heke came up with the match-winner, allowing her side to enjoy long-awaited celebrations.
Melbourne captain Ash Marsters said her team were unable to make the most of their chances.
The Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua will face the Western Force next Sunday at 7.05pm.
[Source: rugby.com.au]
