Men’s 1st Grade Match Report – SIRU DevCore 1st Grade Wagga Waratahs Home Ground, May 2025

The Waratahs Men delivered when it mattered most, securing a vital 38-28 home victory over third-placed Tumut in a thrilling encounter that strengthens their position on the SIRU DevCore 1st Grade ladder.

Ladder Position Implications

This crucial victory maintains the Waratahs’ second-placed position behind Wagga City (56 points) while dealing a significant blow to Tumut’s finals aspirations.

Six-Try Display Secures Victory

The Waratahs crossed for six tries in an entertaining display that showcased their attacking depth. Rob Selosse, Jack Clancy, Eparama Tuvunivono, Liam Rowntree, Thomas Hallam, and Harry Tyson all found the line in a balanced scoring effort that demonstrated the multiple threats throughout their squad.

Day’s Goal-Kicking Proves Decisive

Lachlan Day was instrumental with the boot, successfully converting five of six attempts to contribute 10 crucial points. His accuracy from the tee, combined with his game management, proved the difference in what was ultimately a close contest against quality opposition.

Yellow Card Creates Early Challenge for Tumut

The match began with adversity when Sakaraia Qaranivalu received a yellow card for foul play, forcing Tumut to play with 14 players during a crucial early period.

Squad Rotation Under Pressure

Coach made significant tactical changes with Joshua Gray, Thomas Hallam, Ben Frampton, Tom Menzies, Harry Tyson, and Corey Stocks all being substituted. The introductions of Sam Carwardine, Harry Hayes, Sairusi Boseiwaqa, Tasman Kuhn, Timoci Vatubuli, and Hayden Roache maintained the team’s intensity levels.

Tumut Shows Third-Place Quality

The visitors demonstrated why they sit third on the ladder with tries through Joeli Salusalumasi, Jordan Gogo-Simeona, and Asivurusi Naliga Naliga. Tate O’Donovan proved reliable with both boot and ball, contributing 13 points through a conversion and three penalty goals.

Home Advantage Crucial

This home victory continues the Waratahs’ strong record at their home ground, where they’ve consistently risen to the occasion in crucial matches. The 10-point margin against quality opposition like Tumut demonstrates their ability to deliver when the pressure is on.

Goal-Kicking Battle

The match featured an intriguing battle between the boots, with Day’s superior accuracy (5/6) proving decisive against O’Donovan’s three penalty goals. In tight matches like this, such fine margins often determine the outcome.

Championship Mentality on Display

The ability to maintain composure against third-placed opposition showcased the championship mentality that has driven their campaign. This mental toughness will be crucial as the season reaches its climax.

Final Score

Waratahs 38 – Tumut 28

Scoring Summary

Waratahs Tries: Rob Selosse, Jack Clancy, Eparama Tuvunivono, Liam Rowntree, Thomas Hallam, Harry Tyson Waratahs Conversions: Lachlan Day (5/6)

Tumut Tries: Joeli Salusalumasi, Jordan Gogo-Simeona, Asivurusi Naliga Naliga Tumut Conversions: Tate O’Donovan (2/3) Tumut Penalty Goals: Tate O’Donovan (3/3)