Swire Shipping Fijian Drua captain Tevita Ikanivere has publicly expressed his disappointment regarding some referee decisions during their recent match against the Waratahs, which marked the Drua’s third consecutive loss of the season. Officiated by Angus Maybe, the game saw several controversial calls that Ikanivere felt impacted the dynamics of the match, particularly an incident where he was held in a headlock during a scrum near the tryline in the second half.
While acknowledging the authority of the referees, Ikanivere emphasized that there is little the team can do regarding such calls. However, he remains focused on returning stronger in the next match, stating, “If the ref doesn’t want to go our way, we can’t control that, but we’ll be better and come out stronger next week.”
Despite the challenging circumstances, the Drua showcased resilience, and their performance included moments of promise, such as an early try by Ponipate Loganimasi. Although they opened the scoring and experienced lead changes throughout the match, the Drua ultimately fell short after the Waratahs scored a late penalty try, sealing their victory.
Head coach Glen Jackson also commented on the team’s challenges, highlighting that despite three losses, there is a positive spirit within the squad as they continue to work on improving their execution and discipline during crucial moments. Young talents like Loganimasi are emerging as key players, providing hope for future matchups.
Looking ahead, the Drua will face the formidable Chiefs at Churchill Park in Lautoka this Saturday at 3:35 PM. Both Ikanivere and Jackson are eager to build on the lessons learned from recent matches. The unwavering support from fans adds to the team’s motivation as they aim to convert their competitive performances into much-needed victories.
This situation reflects not only the challenges of the Drua’s current season but also their resilience and potential for growth. With the right adjustments and continued support, there is hope that they can turn their performance around and achieve success in upcoming fixtures.
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