Wallabies aim to make WA fans smile again

The Wallabies are aiming to snare their first win of this year's Rugby Championship when they host South Africa in Perth.

Australia's Michael Hooper challenged by South African players.

The Wallabies want to give shattered Western Force fans some happiness says captain Michael Hooper. (AAP)

The Wallabies are desperate to give heartbroken Western Force fans a dose of happiness during Saturday night's Test against South Africa in Perth, according to captain Michael Hooper.

Some Western Australia rugby fans are threatening to boycott the Rugby Championship Test in protest against the ARU's decision to axe the Western Force.

Other fans have vowed to wear their blue Force jerseys instead of the Wallaby gold to the game.

Hooper doesn't care what jersey they wear - just as long as they rock up.

And he said the Wallabies players were acutely aware of the power they possessed in shaping people's moods at such a dark time.

"We represent Australia," Hooper said.

"We have the control to change and help people's moods and feelings towards everything.

"You know, wake up on Sunday morning just stoked to be Australian and see our colours. We're fully aware of that.

"I haven't had the best history at this stadium in blue colours (playing for NSW). It's not been a great stadium to play away at for a Super Rugby team because the fans are so intense and so into the game.

"So coming into tomorrow, I'm pumped to see them all turn out here supporting gold - whatever jersey they wear."

Hooper says he feels sorry for star Force fullback Dane Haylett-Petty, who will miss the Test with a serious biceps injury.

Haylett-Petty will undergo surgery, ruling him out for the next three months.

The Wallabies' scrum looked shaky a fortnight ago during the 35-29 loss to the All Blacks, prompting coach Michael Cheika to recall prop Sekope Kepu at the expense of Allan Alaalatoa.

Tatafu Polota-Nau comes in at hooker, while lock Adam Coleman returns from a shoulder injury.

Cheika says his pack will face a huge physical test against the Springboks, who are on a five-match winning streak.

"Obviously, they've got their swagger at the moment," Cheika said.

"They've had a couple of really good wins.

"And traditionally, they'll look at us as, you know, (that) they can push us around in the pack.

"We're going to have to be at our best to make sure we can go toe to toe with them."


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Source: AAP



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