The NSW Waratahs' finals hopes are all but over after a comprehensive defeat to the Crusaders.
The Waratahs were on the back foot from the opening minutes and whilst made it a contest, were unable to stop the Crusaders from scoring at will.
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So what did we learn?
The Waratahs were stuck in the gates in the opening minutes and the Crusaders made them pay.
The visitors were unstoppable as they exposed space down Darby Lancaster’s side throughout the first half.
An intercept to Braydon Ennor added to the misery as the visitors had clear intentions in mind, scoring off five of their seven entries into the 22.
Gleeson’s try gave some hope but Waratahs coach Dan McKellar lamented their ‘passive’ defence and lack of care as the Crusaders wrapped up the game heading into the half-time sheds.
The Crusaders are doing almost everything right to claim a crucial top-two spot on the ladder.
They never gave the Waratahs a chance and ended any thought of another upset in Sydney.
The only disappointing factor will be how they let Triston Reilly score in the final minute, denying them the bonus point.
Instead of going solo top, they must settle for second to the Chiefs on points difference.
James O’Connor delivered plenty for Joe Schmidt to think about off the bench for the Crusaders.
O’Connor came on at centre, and whilst his first pass was forward, everything after this was spot on.
The playmaker’s move to set Sevu Reece up and into space for the final try was lovely, whilst remaining solid all night with the boot.
His opportunities are limited given Rivez Reihana’s strong form, but the former Red and Rebel is making good use of the time he gets.
It felt enviable, but Sevu Reece finally tied the record for most tries in Super Rugby history.
Reece showed off the speed to back up Rivez Reihana and what the moment meant was evident as teammates mobbed him.
He equals the record set by Hurricanes legend TJ Perenara and you’d be brave to back against him getting another before the season ends.
The only threat to him may be Julian Savea, who gets the chance to respond tomorrow for Moana Pasifika against the Blues off the bench.
On a tough night for the Waratahs, departing back-rower Langi Gleeson finished his time at Allianz Stadium with a bang.
The number eight deserved a try early after the TMO couldn’t overturn a no-try on-field decision but gave the referees no options a couple of minutes later.
He added his second shortly after the break and was quality throughout, constantly taking the ball over the advantage line for the hosts.
Prop Angus Bell was also superb, getting the dominance at scrum-time along with some big hits.
