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Match Highlights - Waratahs overrun Highlanders in stunning second-half fightback
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The Waratahs ran in three tries in seven second-half minutes to secure a superb 30-23 comeback win over the Highlanders and a spot in the Super Rugby semi-finals.
Trailing by 17 at half-time, the Australian Conference winners staged a remarkable revival to pile on 24 unanswered points in the second period on the way to a second successive win over the Highlanders.
Bernard Foley was the chief destroyer, crossing twice either side of Israel Folau's 10th of the season in a game-changing burst that began in the 54th minute.
The Waratahs had earlier appeared set for a quick exit from their first play-off appearance in three years when tries from Waisake Naholo and Rob Thompson, and a trio of Lima Sopoaga penalties, combined to put the Highlanders in a commanding position.
But the influence of fly-half Foley, who finished with 25 points, and some desperate defence late in the match, swung the contest in favour of the New South Wales franchise, who recorded their first post-season win since beating the Crusaders in the 2014 final.
Their hopes of more success now hinge on a semi-final date with either the Jaguares or the Lions, who meet later on Saturday.
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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