It was ugly but after nine lean years, NSW will take it.

The Waratahs registered their first ever Super 12 rugby win over Queensland, downing the Reds 27-8 at Aussie Stadium.

The victory assures the Waratahs of a home semifinal, a week before the competition proper comes to its conclusion.

Winger and former Queenslander Peter Hewat, who was targetted as a possible weak link by the Reds before the match, fleshed out an often scrappy win, scoring 22 points for the home side including a try from a Mat Rogers cross field kick in the 59th minute.

But it was the forwards who provided the backbone against an understrength and ultimately outclassed Reds side that only had pride to play for.

Phil Waugh was a constant menace from the flank, his quick work at the breakdown helping the Waratahs to many a penalty while again the NSW scrum and lineout were rarely troubled.

If the crowd of 38,220 came expecting a repeat of last weekend's five-try demolition of the Highlanders, they would have left disappointed, the game resembling more the grind between the NSW and Brumbies three weeks ago.

Things started inauspiciously when Julian Huxley - who replaced Elton Flatley at five-eighth for the Reds because of a head knock sustained against the Cats last week - kicked out on the full.

The halftime score of 9-3 in favour of the Waratahs matched the penalty count as the Reds consistently infringed at the breakdown.

There were no tries in the opening 40 minutes but there was no lack of drama.

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