In a stunning turn of events, Siosifa Amone emerged as the unlikely hero as the Waratahs launched their 2025 Super Rugby season with a nail-biting 37-36 win against the Highlanders on Friday night.
After finishing at the bottom of the table last year, the Waratahs welcomed a host of new talent, yet it seemed heartbreak was on the cards once again when Sefo Kautai powered over for a late try, seemingly clinching an unexpected victory for the underdog Highlanders.
However, it was a relatively unknown reserve prop who ultimately stole the spotlight in front of a lively crowd of 16,034 at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.
Siosifa Amone of the Waratahs celebrates the match-winning try. Getty
The 22-year-old Amone, originally from Sydney and having spent his debut seasons with the Force in Perth, took the field for his first game with the Waratahs as an understudy to Taniela Tupou, seemingly an afterthought on the team listing.
Yet he left the field a hero, scoring two remarkable late tries.
The first was a brilliantly executed lineout play that caught the defence off guard, and the second, which came right at the final siren, was a display of raw power and determination.
“It’s unreal. A dream come true,” a delighted Amone relayed to Stan Sport.
Once tipping the scales at approximately 150kg, Amone has undergone an impressive transformation, shedding a significant amount of weight during the pre-season.
“In the end, big Sifa got his second, which is fantastic,” asserted Waratahs loosehead Angus Bell on Stan Sport.
“His journey is incredible; he’s shed 25 kg since he started with us. He’s truly earned it, showcasing his incredible strength and, in the end, winning us the game.
“Considering everything he’s gone through, it’s remarkable to see him put his body on the line like that… it’s been a tough pre-season, but all the boys have worked hard, and we have this result to show for it.”
Other try-scorers for NSW included Rob Leota, Dave Porecki, and Max Jorgensen, while young talent Jack Bowen secured the winning conversion.
For the Highlanders, dynamic winger Caleb Tangitau scored a brace, alongside efforts from Timoci Tavatavanawai, Veveni Lasaqa, and Kautai.
The Highlanders faced disciplinary issues, playing with only 14 men at times due to yellow cards handed to lock Mitch Dunshea and Tangitau.
The Waratahs will enjoy a bye next week, while the Highlanders are set to face the defending champions, the Blues, on their home turf.
In Friday’s opening match of the season, the Crusaders triumphed over the Hurricanes 33-25 in Christchurch.
At Allianz Stadium, Sydney: Waratahs 37 (Rob Leota 34′, Dave Porecki 47′, Max Jorgensen 62′, Siosifa Amone 68 & 80′ tries; Tane Edmed 2 conversions, 2 penalties, Jack Bowen conversion) Highlanders 36 (Caleb Tangitau 6′ & 64′, Timoci Tavatavanawai 26′, Veveni Lasaqa 57′, Sefo Kautai 71′ tries; Sam Gilbert 1 penalty, 3 conversions, Cameron Miller conversion): HT: 13-12
Yellow cards: Mitch Dunshea (Highlanders), Caleb Tangitau (Highlanders)
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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