Men’s 1st Grade Match Report Away Ground, May 2025

The Waratahs Men demonstrated exceptional character and resilience to secure a commanding 47-30 away victory, including an early red card for the opposition that forced them to play the majority of the match with 14 players.

Early Red Card

The match took a dramatic turn in the opening minute when Joshua Daudravuni received a red card for a dangerous high tackle, leaving the Home side to play virtually the entire contest with a numerical disadvantage.

Day’s Masterful Performance

Lachlan Day delivered one of his finest individual displays, contributing 24 points through a try, five conversions, and four penalty goals. His perfect accuracy with the boot (9/9) and leadership under extreme pressure proved instrumental in guiding the team to victory.

Hallam’s Double Sparks Victory

Thomas Hallam produced an outstanding performance with two crucial tries that helped establish the Waratahs’ dominance. His clinical finishing and tireless work rate exemplified the team effort required to overcome such challenging circumstances.

Disciplinary Challenges

The team also had to overcome a yellow card to Luke Turner for foul play, further testing the squad’s depth and mental resilience. Playing significant periods with reduced numbers made the victory even more impressive.

Selosse and Stocks Add Crucial Tries

Rob Selosse and Corey Stocks both crossed for important tries that helped build the commanding lead. Their ability to find gaps in the opposition defence while playing with reduced numbers demonstrated the quality and adaptability within the squad.

Opposition Shows Fighting Spirit

Despite the defeat, the home team demonstrated character with tries through Jona Saumaisue, Darryl Hemopo, Tyler Byrne, and Graham Seruwaqa. Daniel Kitson contributed 11 points through two conversions and three penalty goals, keeping his team competitive throughout.

Perfect Goal-Kicking Under Pressure

Day’s flawless goal-kicking record of 9 from 9 attempts (5 conversions, 4 penalty goals) while playing under extreme pressure showcased his mental strength and technical excellence. His accuracy proved crucial in establishing and maintaining the winning margin.

Tactical Penalty Battle

The match featured an intriguing tactical battle with penalty goals, with Day successfully slotting four attempts while Kitson managed three for the opposition. The Waratahs’ superior accuracy in this crucial area helped establish their advantage.

Building Championship Credentials

This performance under extreme adversity provides tremendous confidence for the remainder of the season. The resilience shown when facing numerical disadvantages and the ability to maintain attacking potency will prove invaluable in future pressure situations.

Final Score

Opposition 30 – Waratahs 47

Scoring Summary

Waratahs Tries: Thomas Hallam (2), Lachlan Day, Rob Selosse, Corey Stocks Waratahs Conversions: Lachlan Day (5/5) Waratahs Penalty Goals: Lachlan Day (4/4)

Opposition Tries: Jona Saumaisue, Darryl Hemopo, Tyler Byrne, Graham Seruwaqa Opposition Conversions: Daniel Kitson (2/4) Opposition Penalty Goals: Daniel Kitson (3/3)

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