Waratahs start Super W title hunt in style with thumping win over Force

Fri, Mar 24, 2023, 8:04 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Piper Duck got a double as the Waratahs shut out the Force. Photo: Getty Images
Piper Duck got a double as the Waratahs shut out the Force. Photo: Getty Images

The NSW Waratahs have produced a statement 43-0 win over the Western Force to kick off Super W for 2023.

Captain Piper Duck celebrated the new appointment in style with a double as they cruised past a Force outfit still finding its feet with a host of new signings.

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After last year’s heartbreak, the Waratahs came out with a point to prove as their Wallaroo contingency stood up.

The forwards lead the way as Duck celebrated being named the youngest captain in club history with the opener via their imposing rolling maul.

Adiana Talakai crossed the exact same way in the 27th minute as they nullified the effectiveness of new signings Michaela Leonard, Yuna Sato and Natsuki Kashiwagi.

Meanwhile, the backs were electric as new flyhalf Ella Ryan controlled the backline with ease.

Georgina Friedrichs sliced through in the 12th minute, with quick hands from 16-year-old fullback Caitlyn Halse finding Maya Stewart in the corner.

Her centre partner Katrina Baker stretched out shortly afterwards to extend the lead to 24-0 lead at the break.

As for the Force, they failed to capitalise on their chances, most notably a certain Katie Barnes try, only to drop the ball over the line, assisted by Ryan’a foot.

The hosts extended their lead after the break through Margot Vella, with Halse giving up another certain try as the game started the break down.

The Force tried to build pressure but the hosts time and time again came up with the turnover to frustrate them.

This boiled over with Ariana Hira-Herangi and Destiny Maui sent to the bin, allowing Duck to cross for her second.

The captain sealed a dream start with a brutal run down the wing to set up Jade Sheridan for a try on debut 

"The girls were working hard all pre-season and to finally put it on the paddock, we're really happy," the Wallaroo said after the match

"We're really strong. Of course, there's some work-ons but we're really happy with that strong performance."

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