The Crusaders are eyeing the vulnerabilities in the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s backline as they prepare to clash at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva this Saturday as part of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific series. In a surprising tactical shift, Crusaders head coach Rob Penney has repositioned winger Sevu Reece to center, aiming to challenge and exploit the defensive partnerships of Drua’s Inia Tabuavou and Iosefo Masi.
Reece, looking to make an impact, believes this will be a great opportunity to showcase his skills at center, having previously played in that position before his transition to the wing. “I’m so excited… it’s always been a goal of mine to play center at this level,” he said, expressing anticipation for the match, especially as it takes place in front of his family in Fiji.
The Crusaders will rely on Reece to create openings for Will Jordan at full-back and his fellow wingers, Chay Fihaki and Macca Springer, with the latter having previously matched the Super Rugby record by scoring five tries in a single match against the Western Force. Codie Taylor, a veteran All Blacks player, will captain the side in place of David Havili, emphasizing the need for unity and discipline: “The team that stays the most connected and nails the basics will win the game.”
On the other side, Drua’s head coach Glen Jackson has assembled his strongest lineup for this crucial encounter, featuring rookie flanker Isoa Tuwai, who will start for the first time amidst several injuries. The return of wingers Selestino Ravutaumada and the promising center partnership of Tabuavou and Masi offers a blend of experience and youthful energy.
As both teams strive for vital points in a competitive season, spectators are encouraged to rally behind the Drua, who have shown promise in past performances, while the Crusaders look to regain their form following a surprising loss to Moana Pasifika. The match kickoff is set for 3:35 PM, promising an exciting atmosphere as both sides aim for a much-needed victory.
This encounter stands as a hopeful turning point, particularly for the Drua, which has the potential to build on their home support and transform historical performances into momentum for their current campaign.
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