NSW Waratahs captain Bernard Foley has spearheaded a remarkable comeback as his side overturned a 17-point halftime deficit and beat the Highlanders 30-23 in their Super Rugby quarter-final.
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Final score
Waratahs 30
Highlanders 23
The Waratahs host the Highlanders on Saturday night at Allianz Stadium, Sydney in the Super Rugby quarter-finals. Join The Roar for live scores and a blog of the match, starting from 8:05pm (AEST).
This is the first time the Waratahs have reached the eliminations rounds since 2015, which was when Michael Cheika moved on to coach the Walalabies on a full-time basis.
Consequently, from Darryl Gibson’s takeover, the ‘Tahs have had a drastic fall from grace, failing to qualify in 2016. Last year, they finished a disgraceful third from the bottom, only above the Sunwolves and the Kings.
But 2018 is a different story. Despite a 29-0 trashing by the Lions, the Waratahs have displayed an effective attacking approach that enables them to reach opposing redzone. Their set-piece has been reliable. Their defence has been solid – until recently while captain Michael Hooper has been injured.
Without a doubt, the Highlanders will take full advantage of this. They will be out for revenge after being trashed by the Waratahs. Firsly, they are keeping the red carded Tevita Nabura away from the Waratahs, including and especially Cameron Clark.
Another Tevita, Tevita Li, will be man the left wing. Last week, he broke through four defenders, ran 90 metres and scored a try. He will probably do this again, if not more, by attacking the less experienced Alex Newsome.
On paper, the Highlanders back row, halves and reserves are deadlier than the Waratahs. Their speed, strength and experience are a key difference between the two teams. But it was a similar situation three months ago, and the New South Welshmen outplayed the Highlanders to win by 30 points.
Prediction
This is going to be a great game. These two teams who have opposing styles which should give the Waratahs a lot of possession. If the Waratahs defence and set-piece reverts to type, it’s their game. But their consistency in these areas over the past few weeks have been poor.
Nevertheless, the Waratahs will throw everything into this match, as a point of pride.
I think, again, they will win despite the odds against them.
Join The Roar for our live blog of the match, starting at 8:05pm (AEST).
Hearditallbefore
Guest
We’ll equal 5th on points - 44 It hurts me because although they are professional athletes half the time they are just goi g through the motions. Izzy threw a forward pass into touch - Foley’s first kickoff didn’t go 10 and instead of tackling they grab at their arms - there is something wrong and it kills me
Hearditallbefore
Guest
I don’t understand what you are trying to say mate but I’ll hive you a tip - there is no apostrophe in Tahs. Now sober up and have a shower
Rugby Tragic
Roar Rookie
Haha and it was a goodie... very good match mate...
Ken Catchpole's Other Leg
Roar Guru
Actually the Waratah is a flower. Or were you referring to the Tahs’ hairy, unwashed and Neanderthal-like fans?
Ruckin Oaf
Guest
Yeah I thought that it was late / high / and no arms. Usually any one of those gets you a little rest. All three should have been a cert.
Ruckin Oaf
Guest
Yeah but I don't think many people saw that second half coming
Congratulations to the Tahs, that was a very good match win.
yasserwallaby
Roar Rookie
And to think I almost switched off the TV at halftime. Glad I didn't.
jameswm
Roar Guru
Oh well, your Tahs that you don’t support made the top 4 anyway.
jameswm
Roar Guru
You do realise they would have been in the finals without the conference system? The players are better than the Highlanders apparently.
Sinclair
Guest
Massive surprise. Nearly switched off at half time. Both teams have massive flaws but did not think NSW had that much character. Yellow card a big factor. Phipps showed tremendous character and then Beale, Foley and Folau started to fire. Hard to see NSW being able to stand up to the next pack they will face but I guess tonight shows you never know for sure... Congratulations NSW.
TomTom
Guest
Well it looks like the Tah's you down again.... but not letting you down, you rock job!
TomTom
Guest
It was more like two yellow card high tackles on the same player during the same place in the space of about 5 seconds. Kepu must be wondering what he did wrong to him! I also thought two consecutive high tackles could've resulted in a red.
Boonzie
Guest
Not sure I agree with that. They didn't blow it so much as had the game taken off them.
TomTom
Guest
Ahahaha classic!
Boomeranga
Guest
A fair bit if credit needs to go to Phipps who I think was the player that bought some energy and passion to the team at the start of the second half. Apart from that though he had a shocker ?
Hearditallbefore
Guest
I’m saying they are even worse - there is a fundamental problem in our SR teams - let’s face it we aren’t bery good - ARU take a bow
Hearditallbefore
Guest
I’m saying they are even worse - there is a fundamental problem in our SR teams - let’s fave it we aren’t bery good - ARU take a bow
Worlds Biggest
Guest
WOW, what a second half by the Tahs, incredibly guttsy win ! It was all Highlanders for the first 55 minutes and then all Tahs afterwards, what a game. You beauty !!!
RobC
Roar Guru
Hi GP. Yes they did. Unfortunately, they had a problem with the card again