Super 14 semi-finals: New South Wales will travel to Christchurch to play the Canterbury Crusaders in the Super 14 rugby union final after beating the Durban-based Sharks 28-13 in Sydney.
The Waratahs scored four tries to one and were never in any real trouble against a disappointing Sharks outfit.
The Sharks opened brightly but began to wilt when they could make no inroads into the uncompromising NSW defence. Although the Sharks' scrum was far superior their line-out was in trouble from the start.
"All credit to the Waratahs, I thought they were outstanding tonight, especially their defence - they put us under a lot of pressure," Sharks captain Johann Muller said.
"Also in the first half our line-out didn't function the way we wanted it to."
Earlier today, the Crusaders will beat the Wellington Hurricanes 33-22 in Christchurch.
Leading 13-8 at halftime, the Crusaders overwhelmed a Wellington side starved of possession and territory, with the final scoreline flattering the visiting Hurricanes.
All Blacks full-back Leon MacDonald was in great touch for the Crusaders and scored two tries, while out-half Dan Carter kicked three conversions and four penalties for a personal tally of 18 points.
Canterbury struggled to beat the Queensland Reds two weeks ago and lost to the Otago Highlanders in last week's final round of league play, leading to some questions regarding their form heading into the semi-finals.
However, they showed they are still the team to beat for this year's title after they wore down the Hurricanes and then unleashed their full attacking force.
