McKellar hails 'special memory' after Waratahs stun Brumbies
The Sydney-based side went into the Friday evening clash after three consecutive Super Rugby losses and with their backs against the wall.
But against the odds, they raced to a commanding 21-7 lead after converted tries from Clem Halaholo, Andrew Kellaway and Joey Walton.
They then withstood a Brumbies comeback to taste victory in the Australian capital for the first time since 2018.
"I just spoke to the boys about how we're a pretty new group together, and that we want to create special memories," McKellar told reporters after the game.
"Tonight's a special memory. To come into a place that we've got enormous respect for ... we fronted up and delivered."
It was touch and go after the Brumbies clawed back to 21-21 as the Waratahs faltered, only for the hosts to concede three crucial late penalties.
Young fullback Sid Harvey, in only his fourth Super Rugby game, stepped up to convert them all and secure the win.
"You've got to want them -– anything in the 50, I'm happy with," said Harvey, who praised skipper Matt Philip for showing faith in him.
"He's really good with that. They back me. Same with the coaches."
Victory consigned the Brumbies to a third loss in four matches as their season stutters after winning their opening three games of the year.
Coach Stephen Larkham blamed himself for the loss.
"It wasn't one of our better weeks (of training)," he said. "Some of that might have transferred into the game. We should have corrected it in training."
The Brumbies have a bye next week while the Waratahs travel to New Zealand to face the Waikato Chiefs.