The Waratahs have been defeated by the Sharks 32-10 in Durban overnight.
In the first half the Waratahs were making big hits but lots of mistakes and turnover ball gave the Sharks a lot of counter attacking opportunity. The game was filled with big collisions and physicality from both teams.
The two sides traded penalties early on whilst the Sharks enjoyed the first large period of possession. Rob Horne was then penalised for a dangerous tackle. Sharks flyhalf Fred Zeilinga was able to convert the penalty from right in front to bring the score to 6-3. The Sharks then furthered their lead after a scrum penalty in the 22nd minute.
The Waratahs earned a penalty when Kurtley Beale was injured after a late tackle by Francois Steyn. Matt Carraro replaced him whilst Beale was tested for a concussion. He was cleared and returned to the field shortly afterwards. Tatafu Polata-Nau was then replaced by Tolu Latu after he received a head knock. Bernard Foley then missed a ruck penalty from right in front. Francois Steyn then slotted a penalty from 55 metres out. The Waratahs hit back immediately with another penalty right in front; however, Bernard Foley was unable to convert. The score remained 12-3 to the Sharks at halftime.
The second half started with a bang with plenty of big hits. Dave Dennis was sent off in the 47th minute for some pushing and shoving. This resulted in a 5 metre line out drive from which Ryan Kankowski scored. The score was then 19-3. The Waratahs then decided it was time for some changes. Paddy Ryan came on for Sekope Kepu; Will Skelton came on for Wycliff Palu then shortly afterwards Brenden McKibbin came on for Nick Phipps and Matt Carraro came on for Rob Horne.
An offside penalty from Michael Hooper gifted Zeilinger with another 3 points to bring the score to 21-3. A quick tap from Keegan Daniel in the 72nd minute extended the Sharks lead to 29-3. A line break from Pat McCutcheon allowed Bernard Foley to stroll in under the posts to keep the Tahs in touch but it was too late. A late penalty from Zeilinga put the final score at 32-10.
[one_third last=”no”]
The Game Changer
The game was beyond reach after Keegan Daniel scored the Sharks second try[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]
The G&GR MOTM
Michael Hooper was strong all game against a physical Sharks forward pack. Jacques Potgieter also had a strong game. Throwing himself around as usual.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]
Wallaby Watch
No particularly strong performances from a defeated Waratahs side; however, Bernard Foley showed some class with a late try but he missed two very kickable penalties.[/one_third]
The Details
Score and Scorers
[one_half last=”no”]Waratahs: 10
Tries: Foley
Conversions: Foley
Penalties: Foley
[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]Sharks: 32
Tries: Kankowski, Daniel
Conversions: Zeilinga 2
Penalties: Styen, Zeilinga 5[/one_half]
Cards and Citings
Dave Dennis YC (pushing and shoving)
