Despite being ahead by six points towards the end, the Highlanders fell short as Siosifa Amone scored his second try for the Waratahs, sealing a 37-36 victory with Jack Bowen’s conversion.
The Highlanders were visibly devastated at the final whistle.
While the game was always closely contested with lead changes throughout, the Highlanders would have hoped to secure a win in Sydney.
They showed flashes of brilliance on the field but were also hindered by back-to-back yellow cards and lapses in concentration at crucial moments.
Sean Withy stood out with his tireless effort in the flank, Nathan Hastie had a solid first half at halfback, and Timoci Tavatavanawai impressed as co-captain at second five-eighth.
A notable highlight was Caleb Tangitau’s debut, where he scored two tries and displayed great promise. The team’s lineout functioned well, and the bench players made a significant impact.
The Highlanders had a mixed first half, scoring two tries but also receiving two yellow cards and making costly errors.
Tangitau lived up to expectations by scoring an early try, followed by another try by Tavatavanawai, giving the Highlanders a 12-3 lead.
However, the game took a turn when Mitch Dunshea was sin-binned, allowing the Waratahs to score a try before halftime. Despite showing signs of regaining the lead, a botched lineout led to a Waratahs penalty that put them ahead 13-12 at halftime.
Despite efforts to regain the lead, the Highlanders struggled as the Waratahs capitalized on their man advantage to take control of the game. The lead continued to change hands, with both teams fighting for supremacy.
Ultimately, the Waratahs emerged victorious with a 37-36 win over the Highlanders, marking a disappointing start to the season for the New Zealand side.
Super Rugby
Match Summary
Waratahs 37
Siosifa Amone 2, Rob Leota, Dave Porecki, Max Jorgensen tries; Tane Edmed 2 con, 2 pen, Jack Bowen con
Highlanders 36
Caleb Tangitau 2, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Viveni Lasaqa, Sefo Kautai tries; Sam Gilbert 3 con, pen, Cameron Millar con
Halftime: Waratahs 13-12.
