NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar has seized on the underdog tag early as the unbeaten side turned their focus to the Queensland Reds.
The Waratahs opened their season with three straight wins for the first time since 2009, thanks to a 34-10 victory over the Western Force.
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They sit second on the ladder, with the Reds the only other team to remain unbeaten after the Chiefs’ surprise loss in Fiji.
The Reds can pass the Waratahs with a win over the Crusaders; however, regardless of the result, McKellar has made it clear what he thinks of the Reds.
“They’re the best team in the comp,” McKellar said after the win.
“We’re going to have to go to the next level with our training, recovery and everything.
“Suncorp is a tough place to win.”
McKellar doubled down on the comments at the end of his post-match press conference to set the tempo for the rivalry and their status as the underdogs.
“If you press rewind and have a look at the vision, I said the Reds are the best team in the comp…You take it how you want to take it,” he said with a wink and a smile.
The Waratahs are keeping realistic despite their best start to the season in 15 years, with McKellar knowing they need to back up this form against tougher opponents away to be serious threats in this competition.
“We won’t be falling in love with ourselves after tonight or the first three games,” McKellar said.
“I’m looking at the Chiefs and others; anyone can beat anyone at the moment.
“Our challenge will come when we go away from home. Winning at home is nice, but winning away from home, they’re the really special memories.”
The Waratahs will be sweating on the fitness of Jake Gordon and Langi Gleeson after they limped up with knee injuries.
McKellar was more optimistic Gleeson was most likely a cork, whilst suggesting Gordon had suffered a medial ligament injury.
It comes with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (foot), Miles Amatosero (back) and Lalakai Foketi (groin) missing Saturday’s win due to injuries.
