The Fijian Drua Development team showcased their dominance last Saturday with an impressive 45-14 victory against the Australian Fiji Rugby under-20 team at Churchill Park in Lautoka. This match served as an exciting prelude to the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific opener between the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika.
Sporting their away jerseys, the Drua began strongly, with Joji Nasova making the first breakthrough by crossing the try-line. The match was structured into quarters of 20 minutes each, and the Drua established an early lead of 14-7 in the first quarter. By half-time, they had built on their advantage, bringing the score to 21-14 as both teams continued to battle fiercely on the field.
The Drua maintained their momentum, scoring an additional 19 points in the third quarter, which contributed to their final tally. Their development squad consisted of 12 players, supplemented by experience from senior members of the Swire Shipping-sponsored team. Harold Rounds captained the squad, supported by By vice-captain Inia Tabuavou, who is also part of the main Drua squad. Notably, two players from the Drua Academy, Daris Khan and Jeremaia Teka, were also included in the lineup.
Prominent senior players such as Philip Baselala, Vilive Miramira, Joji Nasova, and Kavaia Tagivetaua lent their expertise to the match, strengthening the squad’s overall performance. However, the day did not conclude with a win for the senior team, as they faced a challenging game against Moana Pasifika, ultimately losing 26-40.
This comprehensive victory by the Fijian Drua Development team reflects a bright future for rugby in Fiji, as young talents emerge and showcase their skills on an international stage, while senior players continue to guide and support the next generation.
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