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Zac Lomax and standout performances from Dylan Pietsch and Ben Donaldson guided the Force to a narrow win that keeps their finals hopes alive.

Zac Lomax played a key role as the Western Force edged the NSW Waratahs 20-17 in Sydney, securing a result that keeps their Super Rugby Pacific finals hopes alive.

The match at Allianz Stadium featured a much-anticipated meeting between Lomax and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, former State of Origin teammates now in rugby union. While the head-to-head battle was limited, both players contributed in different ways, with Lomax's aerial work and off-ball energy standing out.

However, it was former Waratahs Dylan Pietsch and Ben Donaldson who proved decisive. Pietsch crossed for two tries, including a crucial effort just before halftime, while Donaldson controlled the game at flyhalf, contributing points and setting up attacking opportunities throughout.

The Waratahs took an early lead through Lawson Creighton's try and a penalty from Sid Harvey, before Pietsch's first score levelled the contest at 10-10 heading into the break. The Force then moved ahead early in the second half when Pietsch finished off a break created by Donaldson.

Donaldson added further points from the tee to extend the margin, and although NSW mounted a late challenge through replacement hooker Folau Faianga, the Force held on to secure a narrow victory.

The result moves the Force within two competition points of the Waratahs, keeping them in contention for a top-six finish. It also marks a measure of personal redemption for Lomax, whose previous meeting with Suaalii in rugby league ended in a heavy defeat for his side in 2024.

Force coach Simon Cron acknowledged the performance was not without flaws, pointing to missed opportunities in attacking areas, but emphasised the importance of grinding out a result in a tight contest.