Comeback hoists Waratahs into conference contention

THE resurgent NSW Waratahs have joined Australian rugby’s top dogs, the Brumbies and Queensland Reds, in a fight for national conference honours and play-off spots after a thrilling round 14 in Super Rugby.

The Waratahs’ 28-22 comeback win over the Brumbies in Sydney on Saturday was followed by the frustrated Reds’ 27-13 loss to the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein in a massive momentum shift.

While the Brumbies (46 points) stay on top of the Australian conference, only eight points separate them fromQueensland (44) and NSW (38) with four rounds left.

The loss saw the Brumbies slip to third on overall standings behind defending champion Chiefs (48) and South Africa’s Bulls (46), who both have a game in hand and are well placed for a home semi.

The Brumbies will rue giving up a six-point lead in the final 16 minutes as the Waratahs have a second life in their blossoming first season under Michael Cheika.

NSW appeared on life support three weeks ago after a loss to the Bulls left it 15 points behind the Brumbies on the ladder, but it now has recorded three straight wins.

The Waratahs must continue their roll without powerhouse hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau (broken forearm) while Brumbies star George Smith (knee) is in doubt for the rest of the season.

Queensland dominated possession and territory at Free State Stadium but shot itself in the foot with poor finishing.