In a challenging outing for the NSW Waratahs, their Super Rugby season is dwindling as they fell to the Crusaders, who secured a 35-20 victory at the newly opened One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch, a momentous occasion considering the venue’s significance 15 years after a devastating earthquake hit the city.
The match attracted a crowd of 25,237 enthusiastic fans, as the Crusaders asserted dominance both physically and strategically. The game opened with an energetic haka from the home side, matched with a spirited response from Waratahs players with ties to the Crusaders, Pete Samu and Ioane Moananu.
Crusaders winger Dallas McLeod, initially not part of the starting lineup, emerged as a standout, scoring the first try at the stadium and adding another later in the game after receiving a late promotion due to Sevu Reece’s illness.
The match featured a highly competitive atmosphere with notable moments, including a tussle that led to Waratahs’ Miles Amatosero being shown a yellow card. Despite attempts from visiting players Sid Harvey and Teddy Wilson to turn the tide, the Waratahs never really seemed in contention for an upset.
A notable incident saw Crusaders captain David Havili sin-binned for a high tackle on Max Jorgensen, who fortunately passed his Head Injury Assessment after leaving the field. With a 4-5 record, the Waratahs sit seventh on the ladder, facing an uphill battle as the Super Round progresses.
Post-match, Waratahs coach Dan McKellar expressed frustrations with discipline and set-piece performance, acknowledging the steep learning curve against a powerhouse in the Crusaders. He remains optimistic about his young squad, noting that key player Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is set to return from injury, and believes there’s still an avenue to break into the top six finals, estimating a need for around 34-35 points to qualify.
Captain Matt Philip complimented the new stadium, recognising its importance to the rugby community in Christchurch, which has endured considerable hardships over the years. He felt the match atmosphere was reminiscent of a Test match, highlighted by the pulsating energy of the crowd.
With the Super Round continuing, the Waratahs aim to regroup as they look forward to upcoming fixtures, hoping to harness momentum and secure crucial victories in their quest for a playoff spot.