SIRU DevCore 1st Grade – Round 2 Jarrah Sportsground, May 10, 2025

The Wagga Waratahs First Grade side kicked off their 2025 SIRU DevCore campaign in determined fashion, grinding out an 47-26 victory over hosts Tumut at Jarrah Sportsground in Round 2.

Clinical Performance Delivers Opening Win

In what proved to be a classic arm-wrestle between two committed sides, the Waratahs demonstrated patience and precision to secure maximum points on the road. The visitors’ defense proved impenetrable throughout the 80 minutes, recording their first clean sheet of the season.

Tries the Difference

The match was ultimately decided by the Waratahs’ ability to cross the white line when opportunities presented themselves. Harry Hayes emerged as the hero with a superb triple, showcasing his finishing prowess on the wing to give the visitors a decisive advantage.

The powerful number eight Eparama Tuvunivono also crashed over for a crucial try, demonstrating the forward pack’s ability to contribute in the red zone when called upon.

Goal-Kicking Woes but Job Done

While fullback Lachlan Day struggled from the tee, missing three conversion attempts, his successful penalty goals proved valuable in extending the margin. Day’s general play compensation for his kicking difficulties, with his positioning and game management helping control territory.

Forward Foundation

The Waratahs scrum, anchored by props Ben Frampton and Thomas Blanch alongside hooker Corey Stocks, provided a solid platform throughout. The engine room partnership of Tom Menzies and Nick Finn delivered quality lineout ball, while the loose forward trio of Sam Carwardine, Tom Murphy, and Tuvunivono were industrious at the breakdown.

Backs Show Promise

The halfback-flyhalf combination of Thomas Hallam and Jack Clancy controlled the tempo effectively, while centers Liam Rowntree and Harry Tyson provided defensive steel in midfield. The back three of Rob Selosse, Harry Hayes, and Lachlan Day offered constant threats with ball in hand.

Depth on Display

Coach Nick McCarthy will be pleased with the contributions from his bench, with impact players including Dugald Grieve, Toby Pitts, Kylan Young, Logan Lane, and Dominic Alexander all playing their part in maintaining the defensive and forward momentum in the closing stages.

Looking Forward

This opening round victory sets a solid foundation for the Waratahs’ 2025 campaign. The defensive resolve shown at Jarrah Sportsground, combined with opportunistic finishing, suggests this squad has the ingredients for a successful season.

The challenge now will be to build on this performance and add more attacking variety as the season progresses. With their goal-line defense already proven, improvements in goal-kicking could transform tight victories into more comfortable margins.

Final Score

Tumut 1st XV 26 – Waratahs 1st XV 47

Scoring Summary

Waratahs Tries: Harry Hayes (3), Eparama Tuvunivono, Corey Stocks, Thomas Hallam, Harry Tyson Waratahs Penalty Goals: Lachlan Day (2/2)
Waratahs Conversions: Lachlan Day (3/7)

FIXTURE RESULTS