22 Apr 2012

Waratahs win comes at a cost

6:07 am on 22 April 2012

The Waratahs have finally put some wind into their Super Rugby finals ambitions, but their 30-21 win over the Rebels on Saturday night was marred by injury and suspension worries.

Bernard Foley scored after just 26 seconds but the Waratahs fullback was unable to return in the second half after injuring his shoulder in a tackle gone wrong.

Centre Rob Horne is also likely to be scrutinised by the judiciary after being yellow-carded in the 57th minute for a dangerous tackle on Rebels fullback Kurtley Beale.

The Rebels have a serious injury concern of their own, with Wallabies star James O'Connor forced off in the 54th minute with what appeared to be a rib injury after copping accidental knees from Berrick Barnes.

The Waratahs opening 20 minutes was perhaps the sharpest they've looked all season while the Rebels are now winless in four matches against NSW and remain anchored to the bottom of the Australian Conference.