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Watch: Kurtley Beale magic leads comeback to stun Highlanders
By Online Editors
Waratahs wiz Kurtley Beale was instrumental in bringing the Waratahs back from a 23-6 halftime deficit to win the match 30-23, staging a remarkable second-half comeback.
After setting up flyhalf Bernard Foley from close range, it was this long-range effort that sparked the rally.
Halfback Phipps pounced on a loose ball from the Highlanders lineout and the next phase the Waratahs spun it wide to their dangerman Beale. The mercurial playmaker ghosted through the sliding defence, breaking diving tackles before putting a fend on Highlanders midfielder Tei Waldon. With the fullback closing, Beale took the smart option and setup fullback Israel Folau for the try.
With the Waratahs quickly gaining momentum, it was a Folau break that set up another Foley try for three tries in a ten minute period that stunned the visitors. After a late barrage from the Highlanders, the Waratahs held tight to defend their 7-point lead and stop the game from heading to an extra period.
The Australian conference champions will now face the Lions in a Super Rugby semi-final.
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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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