The NSW Waratahs have picked up from where they left off in Super Rugby AUS, beginning their title defence with a 38-19 win over the ACT Brumbies in Bungendore.
It was a classy performance from Lachlan McCaffrey's side, building the win off the back of a 33-7 half-time lead.
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The visitors leaned heavily on the core of Easts' Shute Shield-winning side, and it delivered.
Scrumhalf Teddy Wilson was at his typical best, whilst former Highlanders winger Freedom Vahaakolo was a handful in attack.
The pair both crossed for doubles in the dominant first half, Vahaakolo opening the scoring in the fifth minute with a powerful burst.
Australia U20 prop Edwin Langi's work at scrum time helped establish field position, with Wilson sneaking over, followed by winger Latrell Smiler Ah-Kiong snatching a rolling maul try.
New recruit Max Burey was also strong, delivering an early chip-and-chase that resulted in a brilliant solo try, only stopped by Corey Toole.
Toole was the standout for the Brumbies in defeat, looking a class above as he set up their only try of the half after sprinting away and drawing the fullback for Klayton Thorn.
But Wilson and Vahaakolo struck late for the heavy lead at the break, which the Waratahs controlled for the rest of the game.
New recruits TJ Talaileva and Triston Reilly combined to reduce the advantage and give the hosts hope of a comeback.
But that was dashed by another Easts standout, centre Otto Serfontein, backing up George Poolman, who was superb, to finish the win off.
Finn Baxter got the last laugh for the Brumbies with a consolation try, but the Waratahs were all class in the win.
The only sour point for the Waratahs came after Jack Hardy, son of former Wallaby Mitch, was taken from the field with what looked to be a serious injury.
