Jayden Stanton made a big impact in his return for Waratahs, scoring the game-winning try with the final play of the day.
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The premiers took a big step towards qualifying for the grand final after a 27-21 victory over Tumut at Jarrah Oval.
It gives them a nine-point buffer on the Bulls approaching the midway point of the season.
However there were plenty of anxious moments as poor goal-kicking almost proved costly.
Waratahs scored five tries to three but trailed for large periods of the second half.
Tries to Pat Lemmich and Jon Carmody quickly eroded the Wagga side's lead however co-coach Angus Stevenson was thrilled with how his side came together to make it three wins from four games to start the season.
"We put a lot of pressure on ourselves by not being able to convert goals but it was just good to grind out a win," Stevenson said.
"It was good to play pretty tight football and know we can do it.
"The forwards were really good for us while the backs are on the improve."
Goal kicking is one concern as is how the side is starting their season halves.
Not for the first time this season, their rivals struck shortly after the break to put themselves in front.
Stevenson said it was a frustrating trait but is confident the team can sort the issue.
Meanwhile Wagga City made it four wins from as many games with a powerful display against CSU.
No side has gotten within 32 points of the Boiled Lollies so far this season and Reddies couldn't back up some promising signs to fall 75-0.
In an ominous sign for their rivals, Wagga City coach Ben Schreiber believes the side is starting to really put it all together.
"We're starting to gel now which is good," Schreiber said.
"We've been working on a couple of things we've needed to work on and the boys are putting together some pretty good results."
Despite Ritchie Herangi being handed a red card, and Pita Herangi a yellow, the team's discipline around the breakdown is one thing Schreiber was pleased to have seen improve.
Hooker Darryl Hemopo was outstanding scoring four of his side's 11 tries.
"It's unreal to have someone that big and be that athletic at the same time," Schreiber said.
"He's a very big asset for us."
Jesse Uhr also crossed for a hat-trick in the win.
In a quirk of the draw the same sides will tackle each other next week but at different venues.
Stevenson believes it is even more important to back up their latest win over Tumut.
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