As the NSW Waratahs gear up to face Moana Pasifika in Round 8 of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, coach Dan McKellar is calling on his players to step up their game. The Waratahs travel to Auckland on Saturday, April 5, 2025, seeking to claim their first away victory of the season, having struggled on the road with a six-game losing streak that includes a heavy 57-12 defeat to the Hurricanes in their last away match.
In stark contrast, Moana Pasifika is riding high after a stunning 45-29 victory over the Crusaders in Christchurch. This win has positioned them ninth in the league, and they are now aiming for back-to-back wins for the first time in their history. The team has showcased an exciting brand of rugby this season, averaging 38.2 points per game while also conceding the most points in the league at 40.3.
McKellar knows that a fast start will be crucial at North Harbour Stadium. He emphasized the physicality of the Moana Pasifika forwards, saying, "They're big men, powerful. If you let them play on the front foot, they'll hurt and challenge any team." His focus is on ensuring the Waratahs are defensively solid, especially in the maul, an area where they have struggled in the past. "It's just a mindset thing and we've got to make sure we turn up with the appropriate mindset on Saturday," he added.
Waratahs captain Hugh Sinclair echoed McKellar's sentiments, stressing the importance of physicality throughout the match. "We've got to be physical," Sinclair stated after the team's captain's run in Auckland. "Moana have some big bodies, strong, powerful ball carriers and you've got to chop them down and keep doing that for the entire 80 minutes. So that's the plan." Sinclair emphasized that winning collisions and maintaining control at the breakdown will be vital for their success.
The Waratahs have shown resilience at home, remaining unbeaten in four matches in Sydney, but their away form has been a major concern. McKellar's challenge to his players is clear: improve the defensive mindset and tackle the physical challenge posed by Moana Pasifika head-on.
On the other side, Moana Pasifika is eager to build on their recent victory and capitalize on their home advantage. The team has been dynamic this season, with their attacking prowess on full display against the Crusaders. Their ability to score points has made them a formidable opponent, and they will look to exploit any defensive lapses from the Waratahs.
As the match approaches, both teams have released their lineups. Moana Pasifika will feature a strong pack, including Tito Tuipulotu, Ardie Savea, and Solomon Alaimalo, while the Waratahs will counter with players like Angus Bell, Teddy Wilson, and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii. The match promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams bringing their unique styles to the field.
The clash between these two sides is set to kick off at 2:05 p.m. local time (NZST), which translates to 12:05 p.m. AEDT, 11:35 a.m. ACDT, and 9:05 a.m. AWST. Unfortunately for fans in Australia, the match will not be available for live TV broadcast, but streaming options will be accessible through Stan Sport.
As the Waratahs aim to break their road woes and Moana Pasifika looks to solidify their momentum, the stakes are high for both teams. Fans can expect an intense battle as the Waratahs strive for a much-needed win, while Moana Pasifika seeks to continue their impressive form. With McKellar's challenge ringing in their ears and Sinclair leading the charge, the Waratahs will look to turn their fortunes around in Auckland.
In the lead-up to this pivotal match, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Will the Waratahs finally secure that elusive away victory, or will Moana Pasifika continue their rise with a second consecutive win? All eyes will be on North Harbour Stadium as these two teams clash in what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.
