THE NSW Waratahs successfully defended their Super W title after defeating the McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women 34-17 at 4R Stadium in Ba yesterday.
The Waratahs controlled the opening half with strong possession, disciplined defence and clinical execution. Winger Maya Stewart crossed for the opening try before vice-captain Desiree Miller added the conversion for a 7-0 lead.
The visitors continued to dominate territory and possession, with Miller scoring their second try. Although she was unable to convert, the Waratahs took a deserved 12-0 advantage into halftime.
The Waratahs started the second half strongly, extending their lead when prop Faliki Pohiva powered over for their third try, with Miller adding the extras.
They continued to apply pressure and secured their fourth try through Rosie Ferguson, although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful.
The Drua responded through Naitasiri native Nunia Daunimoala, who crossed for the hosts’ first try, but the conversion was missed.
The Waratahs answered with another try through Amelia Whitaker before she grabbed her second of the match in the 67th minute after backing herself to dive over in the corner.
The Drua refused to give up, with winger Atelaite Buna slicing through the Waratahs defence to create the opportunity for Daunimoala to score her second try. Varanisese Qoro was unable to add the conversion.
The home side finished strongly when Sulita Waisega crossed for their third try, with Qoro converting. Despite the late Drua fightback, the Waratahs remained in control to seal a 34-17 victory and successfully defend their Super W championship.
