The Waratahs have defeated the Western Force 48-13 at nib stadium to record their third win of the season, but what did we learn from the match?
1. Izzy finally record holder
It’s been well publicised that Israel Folau was edging closer to Lote Tuqiri’s Waratahs tryscoring record, and tonight was the night. An Andrew Kellaway break set up Folau for his 30th Super Rugby try to overtake Tuqiri. Amazingly, Folau has managed to break the record in in 37 less matches!
2. Waratahs break the bogey
While the Waratahs have been one of the best teams in the competition over the last two years they’ve consistently struggled to perform against the Force, having lost their prior three against the West Australian side. They’ve broken the bogey and recorded the second biggest win in an Australian derby in Super Rugby history.
3. Second half worries for Western Force
It’s not the first time the Force have struggled to put in an 80-minute performance. Their tour of New Zealand saw them fight valiantly in the first half but give it away in the second 40. It’s nothing new for head coach Michael Foley but something that will need to be assessed. Tough travel might be to blame but after coming off the bye you might have expected a more well-rounded effort.
4. Waratahs backline finding groove
It’s been an inconsistent year for the Waratahs backline with injury woes and positional changes having a major effect of their balance but tonight it was the Waratahs of old. Bernard Foley was back to his best while Kurtley Beale was using his creativity in attack to hurt the Force. Great signs for Daryl Gibson and his troops.
5. Remember the name
Harry Scoble, a product of the Australian pathways, made his debut off the bench for the Force and the fiery redhead will be one to watch in the future. Replacing veteran hooker Heath Tessman in the second half, Scoble managed to cross over for his first Super Rugby try just five minutes after entering play. Looks to be a fine replacement with Nathan Charles ruled out for the season.
