The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is set to launch their 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season with much more than just points at stake; pride and a desire to settle unfinished business are driving their ambition. This Saturday, they will face off against Moana Pasifika in Lautoka, reigniting the increasingly fierce rivalry dubbed the “Battle of the Pacific.”
Having suffered a setback against Moana last season, the Drua are determined to make their mark early this time around, especially when performing in front of their home crowd. Head coach Glen Jackson acknowledged that last year’s defeat serves as a continual reminder of the level of preparation and performance required to succeed at this stage.
“They played unbelievably well against us. I thought in North Harbour we probably didn’t fire too many shots. So it’s certainly a good game to have first up,” stated Jackson, reflecting on the previous encounter.
This immediate rematch serves not only as a chance for redemption but also provides a foundational motivation for the Drua as they prepare for the season ahead. Jackson emphasized the significance of having the chance to address last year’s loss, particularly in familiar surroundings: “I know the guys that played that game will have memories of that, so it’s nice to have them on our home turf.”
Although the two teams will only meet once this year, Jackson expressed enthusiasm about kicking off the season with a Pacific derby, recognizing its importance for fans and players alike.
The highly anticipated encounter is set to take place at Churchill Park in Lautoka, with kickoff scheduled for 3:35 p.m. Fans can catch the action live on FBC Sports. The Drua’s determination and the electrifying atmosphere promise an exciting start to the new season.
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