The 2014 Asteron Life Super Rugby Champions will have their work cut out for them this season if they want to be the first Australian province to successfully defend their title.
However, the noise out of Sydney is looking positive with a solid preseason, off Coogee hills, hits and a determination to create a Rugby legacy.
Trial Form:
The NSW Waratahs have had two trial matches with the first being three 30 minute thirds against three of Sydney’s leading Club Rugby sides; Sydney University, Parramatta and Randwick at Granville OVal. New South Wales scored ten tries to the Club’s collective two with winger Taqele Naiyaravoro and No.8 Wycliff Palu scoring two tries each.
The NSW Waratahs second trial match saw the return to a Super Rugby style format with a hit out against the Chiefs at Campbelltown Stadium inn Western Sydney. The Chiefs side hosted an array of All Blacks including code-hopper, Sonny-Bill Williams in his return to Rugby Union after a stint with Rugby League and boxing.
NSW were well tested by the Chiefs but were able to hold on against the late surging New Zealanders 38-36, with a hat-trick of tries to winger Rob.
New Signings:
The Waratahs have added to the centre stocks with the signing of Suntory Sungoloath player, Kotaro Matushima who will join the Club from March through to August. NSW have also recently had scrumhalf Nick Phipps and winger Rob Horne re-commit to Waratahs with extended deals.
Player to Watch:
Israel Folau has been a revelation to Rugby and to the Waratahs since joining the code in 2013. The powerful fullback has made a name for himself for his ability with ball in hand, ability to break through defence lines and create space for his fellow backs.
With the Rugby World Cup on the horizon for the Qantas Wallaby a solid 2015 Super Rugby season could send chills down the spines of players and fans alike when “Izzy” has the ball.
Opening Match:
The NSW Waratahs take on the Western Force in the Australian conference derby
NSW Waratahs captain Dave Dennis was excited to get back into the season at the NSW Waratahs season launch.
“Everyone is excited. It’s kind of been weird, it feels like only yesterday we played the final but it does feel like a while since we have had a home game and played Super Rugby.
“A Sunday afternoon game, there is no better way to start.
“We’ve scheduled some cracking home games (this year) and afternoon games which I think the players and the public all enjoy and they are against Australian teams, local derbies.
“It’s going to be really exciting on the calendar so hopefully we get some big crowds and play well.”
Join the NSW Waratahs as they look to go back to back in defending their Asteron Life Super Rugby title here!
