Head Coach Glen Jackson of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua raised concerns regarding officiating during their recent Super Rugby Pacific match against the Brumbies, where they suffered a 38-21 defeat. Following the game’s conclusion, Jackson analyzed several critical decisions that he believes hampered the team’s performance.
Jackson refrained from blaming the loss solely on referee calls but highlighted specific instances that warranted scrutiny. One notable moment occurred in the 26th minute when Drua player Ponipate Loganimasi was tackled while attempting a chip and chase, a move that he contended should have resulted in a penalty and a yellow card for the opposing player, Brumbies fullback Tom Wright.
The coach voiced apprehensions about the inconsistency in officiating, recalling a previous match where another questionable decision, related to a collapsed maul near their try line, cost the Drua dearly. “We’re under pressure at the goal line but did not receive the rewards our players deserved,” he noted, reflecting on the broader frustrations with officiating.
Despite the setbacks on the field, both Jackson and his players maintain a positive outlook. They are gearing up for their next challenge against the Chiefs, the current league leaders, determined to secure their first victory of the season. Jackson highlighted the team’s resilience and potential, especially pointing out promising young talents like Loganimasi.
Recent articles outlined the Drua’s focus on mental resilience amid these challenges, emphasizing a need to shift attention from officiating to enhancing performance. Even with three consecutive losses now, there remains an unwavering spirit among the players, driven by a strong fan base eager to see their efforts translate into success.
As the Drua prepare for their upcoming match in Lautoka, there is hope that they can channel their fighting spirit and learning experiences into a much-needed win. The team’s preparedness, along with the support of their fans, inspires optimism that they will turn their competitive edge into favorable results in the future.
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