Photo Gallery: Fantastic action pics from Gen Blue U18s v Melbourne Rebels, NSW Invitational

There were big hits, fancy footwork and head-turning tries. In one case there was a headstand! Check out the best photos from the Gen Blue v Rebels and NSW Invitational XV matches. GALLERY

There was great action _ and photos _ from the U18 matches at NSW Waratahs headquarters this week.

There was great action - and photos - from the battles between some of the best young rugby players in NSW and Victoria in Sydney this week.

The Waratahs Academy fielded a Gen Blue I and II side in the matches against the Melbourne Revels and a NSW Invitational XV.

And with Australian rugby selectors watching on, the teenagers played their hearts out.

Angus Staniforth turning the game on its head. Pics: Julian Andrews

The Gen Blues I and II teams emerged triumphant from both matches on a picture perfect day in Sydney.

Many of these players showed the skills that will see them go on to represent the Waratahs.

Omar Noureddine ready to pounce on Julian Caillol

Others gave a glimpse of the prowess and flair that will hopefully see them play for the Wallabies in the future.

Photographer Julian Andrews was on the sidelines capturing some of the best moments of the event.

There were plenty of great moments in the Gen Blue II v NSW Invitational match for John Ryan. Pic: Julian Andrews.

Ronan Leahy on the burst and avoiding Rebels player Hugo Peel

Even the weather played ball a the event.

There were some great skills shown at the event.

Waratah Academy player Louis Dalrymple on the run. Tavita Loga

The Academy boys won the top game of the day.

Joey Fowler has Leafi Talataina covered.

The young guns of rugby in Sydney this week.

Wyatt Ballenger breaking through.

The Invitational team put on a great show.

Action in the first game.

Invitational player Jullien Caillol was a standout.

Gen Blue player Oliver McCrea.

It was serious but there was plenty of enjoyment for players.

Rebels player Leafi Talataina

Try! Action in the Under 18 Gen Blue II v NSW Invitational XV match.

Ronan Leahy on his way to scoring.

Invitational player Jasper Jarvis

The rising stars of rugby put on quite a show.

Gen Blue I team shot.

There were plenty of tries scored on the day. :

The NSW Invitational U18 team out to thwart Gen Blue II.

Hwi Sharples in action.

Invitational player Julian Caillol

James McGregor in the Invitational team.

The event showcased rugby’s best young talent.

An Invitational player on the run.

The Gen Blue U18 team and Melbourne Rebels.

Omar Noureddine.

Invitational player Ben Dufficy was a standout.

Theres was great action _ and photos _ from the U18 matches at NSW Waratahs headquarters this week.

MORE FROM AMANDA LULHAM HERE