The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua team is facing challenges in their backline for the upcoming 2024 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season due to the absence of a specialized second-five-eighth. This issue became apparent following Kalaveti Ravouvou’s departure to Bristol Bears, leading the team to experiment with Kemu Valetini, Apisalome Vota, and Michael Naitokani in the number 12 position.
Tim Sampson, the team’s attacking coach, stressed the importance of solid connections between the number 10 and number 12 positions for effective gameplay. He expressed optimism about new recruit Inia Tabuavou, highlighting his skills as a ball player and communicator. Sampson believes that Valetini and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre will also play crucial roles in linking the attacking play from the backline to the outside players.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Sampson is positive about the team’s progress, stating that they are significantly fitter than a year ago, largely due to increased conditioning work during training. He emphasized the need to improve their performance in away games and is confident that continued success at home could propel them toward a top-four finish.
Coach Glen Jackson confirmed the coaching staff structure, which includes Sampson as the attacking coach, Chris Gibbes overseeing the forwards, and Greg Flemming handling defense.
This article illustrates the Drua’s proactive approach to address team weaknesses and develop their players, promising a more dynamic and competitive season ahead. The focus on fitness and game strategy reflects a commitment to improvement, which bodes well for the team’s future endeavors in the league.
In summary, while the Drua faces a gap in a key position, the coaching staff’s planning, training improvements, and commitment to team cohesion offer a hopeful outlook for the upcoming seasons.
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