The Waratahs got a lesson in finals football as they were comfortably beaten 39-15 by the Chiefs.
After an incredible 2022, they fought hard but failed to convert their chances as the hosts replicated their efforts from Super Round.
So what did we learn?
1.Work to do
After such a positive season, the Waratahs will enter 2023 with plenty of motivation after Saturday’s defeat.
They were outclassed throughout the performance and as Jake Gordon said after the game, there’s still plenty of growth left in them.
Take nothing away from this year, this has been a wonderful effort from the group and Darren Coleman to get this far.
The key is to now back it up and ensure it's not a false dawn.
2. Outmuscled
The Chiefs controlled the contest and they largely have their dominant work at ruck-time to thank for this.
They bashed the visitors and won the collision battle across the 80 minutes, often leaving Waratahs attackers isolated and vulnerable at ruck-time.
Neutralising the likes of Gamble, Hooper and co was key and Clayton McMillan’s gameplan was near perfect.
3. Live by the sword
When your game style is geared around throwing the football around, you have to accept the risk that comes with it. Unfortunately for the Waratahs, this came back to haunt them.
With the game in the balance at 17-10, the decision to spread the ball from their own goalline came awry when Edmed’s pass failed to find Ben Donaldson, allowing Alex Nankivell to grubber through and score.
It was just that pressure reliever for the hosts after some great defence before the break.
Also, Quinn Tupaea's head rub and carry on in Donaldson’s face was a very bad look and reportedly not the first time this week it’s happened by an All Black that should know better.
4. Taking your chances
The Waratahs learnt the difference between regular season and finals football as they were made to pay for failing to take their chances.
The Chiefs were clinical in attack and took a commanding lead into the break despite finding themselves well behind in the possession battle.
When the ‘Tahs got themselves back into the fight, error and error shut down any glimpses of a comeback before Brad Weber’s second sealed their fate.
5. Battering Bell
Angus Bell continues to be one of the most valuable players for the Waratahs, giving his all in the defeat.
He made 11 carries, double the next 'Tah forward, and was used most successful as a battering ram off the lineout.
The 21-year-old was well supported by Tom Horton, who delivered his best game of the year after Dave Porecki’s late withdrawal and Harry Johnson-Holmes on his injury return.
