Crusaders Collapse in Perth as Western Force Secure Historic Comeback Victory

The Western Force overturned a 19-0 deficit to defeat the Crusaders 31-26, marking their first home win of 2026 and leaving the defending champions reeling.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 8:25 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Breaking Development: A Game of Two Halves

The Crusaders appeared to be cruising toward a standard bonus-point victory within the first 22 minutes, following tries from George Bell, Leicester Fainga'anuka, and Johnny McNicholl. However, the momentum shifted decisively just before the interval when Harry Robertson crossed for his first of two tries. The second half belonged entirely to the Force; they systematically dismantled the Crusaders' defense with tries from Dylan Pietsch, centurion Harry Johnson-Holmes, and Zac Lomax, the former rugby league star who scored his maiden Super Rugby try in his first starting appearance.

Background and Strategic Context: A Season of Turmoil for the Champions

The Crusaders' 2026 campaign has been uncharacteristically inconsistent. Following the departure of key personnel to northern hemisphere clubs, the "new era" under their current coaching staff has struggled to maintain the clinical execution that defined their previous championship runs. Conversely, the Western Force have been desperate for a home win to validate their recruitment strategy, which included the high-profile cross-code signing of Zac Lomax. This victory at HBF Park marks their first win in Perth this year and serves as a major statement of intent for the remainder of the season.

Key Players and Stakeholders: Robertson and Lomax Shine

Harry Robertson: The standout performer for the Force, his brace of tries provided the spark for the comeback.