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Western Force will kick off their new Super Rugby Pacific season with the grudge match against Melbourne Rebels.
The team may be unrecognisable to the one that was axed by Rugby Australia five years ago as the governing body saved the Rebels.
But Sea of Blue fans have long memories and will not let the Rebels forget in the campaign opener on Saturday February 25 at HBF Park.
The Force have six home games, missing out on a seventh against the Reds because they play the Queenslanders in Melbourne in the Super Round in their second match.
They are back home to face Moana Pacifika before a tough away run of three games in New Zealand against the Highlanders, Blues and Hurricanes, followed by a bye, before another away clash against the Waratahs.
After a home game against the Highlanders the Force hit the road again to take on the Reds and reigning champions Crusaders followed by Fijian Drua and the Brumbies at home.
The travel to Melbourne for the return grudge clash in the penultimate round before ending the season against the Chiefs at HBF Park.
New coach Simon Cron said fans can expect a new style from the rebuilt squad.
“There are several new players the Sea of Blue get to watch that will bring something different to the team and I know they are all excited to kick off the season at home,” Cron said.
They face Moana Pasifika for the first time at home after their win in Auckland last season but Cron said they would be a different package in their second season.
“Moana Pasifika have had their build-up, they will be a better side than they were last season,” he said.
“They will come with a lot of heart, we will have to be on our best to take it to them.”
Cron said heading to New Zealand early in the campaign would be a big test for the side but would accelerate off-field morale.
“We will run with this opening and enjoy being on the road for three weeks,” he said.
“Being away from home helps us continue sufficient time to build camaraderie.”
Fixtures
Saturday, February 25: Melbourne Rebels, 7pm, HBF Park
Sunday, March 5: Queensland Reds, 1.30pm, AAMI Park
Saturday, March 11: Moana Pasifika, 7pm, HBF Park
Sunday, March 19: Highlanders, 10.35am, Rugby Park
Sunday, March 26: Blues, 10.35am, Eden Park
Sunday, April 2: Hurricanes, 11.35am, Sky Stadium
Saturday, April 15: Waratahs, 5.45pm, Allianz Stadium
Saturday, April 22: Highlanders, 5.45pm, HBF Park
Saturday, April 29: Queensland Reds, 5.45pm, Suncorp Stadium
Saturday, May 6: Crusaders, 12.35pm, Orangetheory Stadium
Friday, May 12: Fijian Drua, 5.35pm, HBF Park
Saturday, May 20: Brumbies, 8pm, HBF Park
Friday, May 26: Melbourne Rebels, 5.35pm, AAMI Park
Saturday, June 3: Chiefs, 8pm, HBF Park
