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Crusaders Crush Waratahs, Ending Finals Aspirations

A dominant first-half performance and defensive lapses sealed the Waratahs' fate in a 48-33 loss, marking their fourth consecutive defeat.

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Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt says he is considering James O'Connor (C) for the Super Rugby squad
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Overview

  • The Waratahs were eliminated from Super Rugby Pacific finals contention after a 48-33 defeat to the Crusaders at Allianz Stadium.
  • The Crusaders surged to a commanding 31-7 halftime lead, scoring five tries to one in the first half alone.
  • Waratahs coach Dan McKellar criticized his team's defensive effort, calling the first-half display 'pretty passive' and highlighting a lack of commitment.
  • Star fullback Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a broken jaw, further compounding the Waratahs' struggles.
  • Sevu Reece equaled the all-time Super Rugby Pacific try-scoring record, while James O'Connor impressed off the bench, bolstering his case for a Wallabies recall.