Waratahs Crush Reds as Super Rugby Rivalry Erupts in Sydney
The oldest rivalry in Australian rugby has exploded back onto the Super Rugby Pacific stage and the message from Sydney is loud and clear — the NSW Waratahs are here to make a statement.
At Allianz Stadium, the Waratahs powered past the Queensland Reds 36–12 in a season opener that began tight but ended emphatically. For fans who know what this interstate clash represents, this was more than just Round One. It was pride. It was history. And it was a warning shot to the rest of the competition.
The first half showed glimpses of a genuine arm wrestle. The Reds, featuring experienced prop Aidan Ross in his first Super Rugby Pacific appearance for Queensland after more than a century of games with the Chiefs in New Zealand, tried to match the physicality. But discipline quickly became a problem. Penalties stacked up. Territory slipped away. And against a side as clinical as the Waratahs, that is a dangerous game.
By halftime, the Waratahs had built a narrow edge. Then they shifted gears.
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Defence became dominance. Every Reds attack was smothered. Every breakdown was contested. And when opportunities opened, the Waratahs struck with pace and precision. The moment that truly lifted the stadium came from young winger Max Jorgensen, whose electric solo try just before the break underlined why so many see him as one of the brightest prospects in Australian rugby. Speed, footwork, confidence — it was all there.
The Reds had flashes. Fraser McReight worked tirelessly. Hunter Paisami showed aggression in contact. But missing key playmakers and struggling at set-piece time, Queensland simply could not sustain pressure. By the final quarter, fatigue crept in and the Waratahs ran away with it.
This matters beyond one result. Super Rugby Pacific is fast, unforgiving and momentum-driven. Bonus points early can define a season. The Waratahs have banked confidence and points. The Reds now face questions about depth and discipline as they navigate injuries.
For Australian rugby, though, there is encouragement. Young forwards stepped up. Back-row depth looked strong. The rivalry still burns hot, even drawing players from across the Tasman into its emotional pull.
If this opener is any indication, the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season is going to be fierce, fast and deeply competitive.
Stay with us for continuing coverage, analysis and every major development from across the rugby world as this season unfolds.
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