Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s head coach Glen Jackson remains optimistic ahead of their upcoming clash against the Chiefs, despite the team facing three consecutive losses in their Super Rugby Pacific campaign. The Drua narrowly lost to the Brumbies (32-36), followed by a closely contested game against the Hurricanes (34-38) and a recent defeat to the Waratahs (24-29).
This Saturday, the Drua will host the Chiefs at Lautoka’s Churchill Park at 3:35 PM. Jackson emphasized the importance of securing their first win, noting that the team requires seven victories along with a few bonus points to stay competitive in the league. “We’ve let ourselves down in some matches, but returning home will create an exciting atmosphere for us,” he stated positively.
Jackson pointed out the increased competitiveness in the Super Rugby Pacific this season, especially with the absence of the Rebels. He credited his players for their hard work and commitment, stating that their recent weekend off was beneficial for recovery. The coach praised the contributions of younger players like Livai Natave and Mesake Doge, who showcased the team’s depth when they came on as substitutes. As the Drua gears up for this pivotal match, Jackson is hopeful that the team can build on their efforts and turn their performance into a victory.
Captain Tevita Ikanivere reflected on the narrow defeats and expressed disappointment regarding missed opportunities in the final minutes of their recent games. He acknowledged the need for improved focus going into their match against the Chiefs, encouraging his teammates to learn from these experiences.
The Drua’s challenge lies not only in overcoming their recent setbacks but also in harnessing the support of the local fans, which Jackson believes will motivate the team to elevate their performance on home soil. This upcoming match presents a chance for the Drua to reclaim their spirit and showcase their potential, igniting hope within the Fijian rugby community for a successful outcome.
Overall, the Drua’s resilience and determination to improve serve as a testament to their potential as they aim to secure their first victory of the season, which could be a turning point for the team moving forward.
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