The intense preseason has provided its first sign of pay off for the NSW Waratahs as they earnt a 40 – 21 victory over the Highlanders in greasy conditions at Leichhardt Oval.
Exciting the fans who battled the elements on Friday night was the emergence of first year players, set piece dominance and exciting running rugby.
The first half was where the Tahs earned their stripes. An intercept and a pick-and-go try from close quarters put the side behind early. But the early setbacks did not dampen the eagerness of the backs to let the ball sing. Hard hits were the order of the night, with the side building their attack off determined defensive efforts.
Rob Penney’s side worked their way into the match, ramping up their defensive efforts to turn the tide after a slow start. The first and second defenders at the ruck made their presence felt, forcing the Highlanders into handling errors and rushing their decision making to great effect.
With the Highlanders allowing the Tahs prime field position and time with ball in hand, the match marked the arrival of Mark Nawaqanitawase. In his first start for his state, the St Pat’s product stood up in his time at fullback. He was a constant attacking threat, with his speed and aerial presence causing problems, while also not shirking his defensive role at the back.
Harry Johnson Holmes kicked off the scoring with a pick-and-go late in the first quarter. While new recruit, Carlo Tizzano scooped and scored for the first of two tries.
The second half saw things open up for the home side, with a great display of attacking flair featuring flick passes, slick handling and sensational passing movements – all built off the back of a monster set piece.
The forward pack put in major work at scrum time, earning numerous penalties and providing a crucial base for the side to launch their expansive attacking style.
Mack Mason and Will Harrison took advantage of their forward’s dominance, steering the side around the back in their respective stints in the No.10 jersey.
Harrison’s cross field kick to Alex Newsome sparked scoring in the second half, play that saw the Tahs take the lead and ultimately run away with it.
Carlo Tizzano and Michael McDonald went in for fourth quarter tries, showcasing some slick skill and sharp offloads. James Ramm’s midfield break off a final minute line out was the final try in a very dominant performance.
Building towards Round One against the Crusaders, the Tahs gave a great glimpse into what fans should expect for the 2020 Super Rugby Season.
The side travels to regional Queensland for the second trial against the Queensland Reds.