The NSW Waratahs U20s are set to take on the Queensland Reds in what promises to be an intense contest, with the team having prepared well and ready to deliver. Fresh off a commanding performance against the Western Force, the Waratahs are eager to build on their momentum as they approach their long-standing rival.
Last weekend at Daceyville, the Waratahs U20s delivered a performance that showcased the work the team has done over the past few months in both attack and defence right from the opening whistle. The match kicked off with an aggressive start—immediate tackles and a well-executed scrum set the tone for what turned out to be a dominant display by the Tahs.
Reflecting on last week’s game, U20 winger Cooper Watters commented, “Last week was good, but I think we could have put them under a bit more pressure. There were moments when we couldn’t quite get to our structure, but overall, it was an intense game that got the boys moving.”
Cooper Watters—playing at centre wing—gave insight into the team’s mindset heading into the Queensland fixture. “We’ve trained for months and are now just loving being out there and getting minutes on the field.”
This weekend the team will be without Wallaby Rugby 7’s players Sid Harvey and Hadley Tonga however Watters was excited by the opportunity explaining “They’re obviously important, but I am confident we have enough depth in our squad to play well without them. We know our strengths, and that gives us the confidence to step up when needed.”
Watters spoke of standout performances against the Force and who to keep an eye on this week, “Joe Mango went unreal. He played an absolutely fantastic game and had a massive impact when he came on. Joey Fowler has also been playing really well,” he added.
Watters personal focus this week, “is to get around the ball more, contest every kick, and really stay wide to take up space. I’m looking to be more aerial and ensure I’m always in the right position.”
Traveling on early Saturday morning presents its own challenges, but the Waratahs U20s are well-prepared. “It will be a big travel day, but we handle it well,” Watters noted with a confident smile. “We’ll probably all sleep on the plane on the way up, and the trip back will be a bit of fun if we secure the win.”
“Growing up watching these games, you always want to beat Queensland,” Watters said. “Wearing blue brings a lot of pride, and every match is a chance to add another memorable chapter to our legacy.”
As the Waratahs U20s prepare for this important fixture, the focus remains on building on last week’s performance and maintaining mental resilience. “Footy is very mental,” Watters concluded. “As long as we stay mentally strong and united, I’m sure we’ll get up and do well on the field.”
The NSW Waratahs U18s play the Queensland Reds U18s at Ballymore Stadium in Brisbane on Sunday at 3.15pm (AEDT). The game will be streamed live on rugby.com.au and the Rugby Xplorer app.
- Jack Cesare
- Charlie O’Kane
- Kaleb Ah Colt
- Joe Mangelsdorf
- Eamon Doyle
- Luca Cleverley
- Marshall Le Maitre
- Toby Brial
- Hwi Sharples
- Joey Fowler
- Brendan Palmer
- Louis Fenwicke
- Liam Grover
- Cooper Watters
- Brody McLaren Reserves
- Bailey Park
- Dante Siale
- Nick Hill
- Aron Brennan
- Jacob Veiru
- Wyatt Ballenger
- Sam Blank
- Jay McKenzie
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- Zach Fittler
