The Queensland Reds were brought crashing back down to earth, but the NSW Waratahs finally found their bloom in another weekend of mixed results for the region's homegrown rugby stars.
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Alex Newsome's Waratahs started the round off with a much-needed 29-17 win over the Lions at Parramatta on Friday night.
In what coach Rob Penney described as "a step in the right direction" the Waratahs produced some electrifying attack en route to their first win of the season.
Playing at outside centre, Newsome had some really good involvements in attack. The Glen Innes product made the second most run metres for the Waratahs, making 77m (according to Fox Rugby stats) from seven runs. He also had two linebreaks, one tackle bust, and even one pilfer, but did temper that with a couple of missed tackles and a couple of turnovers.
Things quickly though took a downward turn with Brooke Saunder's Melbourne Rebels side thrashed 104-3 by the Reds in their Super W clash.
It was played as a curtain raiser to the Red's game against the Sharks. Coming off a record win over the Sunwolves, the side featuring Gunnedah's Harry Wilson and Inverell's Jock Campbell went into the game confident but were soundly beaten 33-23.
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Worse for Wilson was that he had to watch most of the second half from the sidelines after copping a head knock and being forced off four minutes into the half. The No.8 was still one of the Reds' most effective ball carriers making 26m (the second top of the forwards).
Playing at fullback Campbell didn't enjoy the space, or opportunities, he had the previous week but played a pivotal role in the Reds' second try, his quick-thinking, and soccer skills, earning them a five metre scrum.
Looming in support of Hamish Stewart, who had burst through after some good interplay, rather than risk knocking on the inside centre's low pass, Campbell put his boot to it. Chasing through, he then helped push the Sharks player back into the in goal.
The Reds scored from the ensuing scrum penalty to regain the lead having led 11-8 at half-time with Campbell kicking two penalties.
He had a tough night with the boot only managing to convert one of the Reds' three tries.
They next face defending champions the Crusaders while the Waratahs host the Chiefs in Wollongong.
