Waratahs across the ditch and back in 2018 trials

Tue, Dec 5, 2017, 12:58 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
The Waratahs played at Brookvale Oval last preseason. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart Walmsley
The Waratahs played at Brookvale Oval last preseason. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart Walmsley

The Waratahs will kick off their 2018 preseason in Queenstown, before taking a game to Brookvale Oval for the second straight year.

NSW will face off against the Highlanders for the third time in a row ahead of the regular season, having gone down in tight trials the past two years.

They’ll head back over the ditch for the third installment, playing off in Queenstown, before returning to Australia.

Their second week of matches will be at the Brisbane Tens, before hosting the Rebels at Brookvale Oval.

The Manly ground was the site of their preseason match against the Highlanders last year, where they fell just short against the Kiwis.

The Waratahs were outclassed at Brookvale Oval. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart WalmsleyTickets to the Brookvale trial will be free for Waratahs members.

Coach Daryl Gibson said the 2018 season, the final year in his contract, was one where NSW had to ‘deliver on its potential.

“We have a new assistant coach in Simon Cron and a group of young players eager to make their mark and push for Super Rugby selection,” he said.

“2018 is about delivering on our potential and putting together performances that the team and our fans can be proud of.

“These games provide us with the perfect opportunity to get ourselves match-ready for the season against two quality teams.

“And the match at Brookvale is the perfect dress rehearsal and our last chance to prepare ourselves for the season opener against the Stormers.”

“When we last played at Brookvale it was awesome to see the families come along and the community embracing the team.

“It would be great if we could create that fantastic atmosphere again because I know that the team, and particularly the players from that region, cannot wait to play at Brookvale again.”

The Waratahs kick off their 2018 season against the Stormers on Saturday February 24, kicking off at 7:45pm AEDT.

FIXTURES

Super Rugby trials

More to be confirmed

Friday February 2

Highlanders vs Waratahs, Queenstown, 6pm local, 4pm AEDT

Saturday February 3

Brumbies vs Rebels, Seiffort Oval, Queanbeyan, 6pm AEDT

Friday February 9 - Saturday February 10

Brisbane Tens, Suncorp Stadium

Thursday February 15

Waratahs vs Rebels, Brookvale Oval, 6:45pm AEDT

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