The Fijian Drua face a challenging period of reflection as they approach their bye week in the Super Rugby Pacific competition following a heavy 15-51 loss to the Western Force at HBF Park in Perth. The team struggled significantly throughout the match, with the Force establishing an early dominance by scoring 33 unanswered points. Ilaisa Droasese managed to secure an unconverted try for the Drua just before halftime, but it was not enough to shift the momentum.
In the second half, the Drua did attempt to rally, scoring two more tries through Taniela Rakuro and Etonia Waqa. However, these efforts were overshadowed by the Force’s relentless pressure, which kept the Drua on the back foot. The breakdowns and lineouts were controlled easily by the Force, highlighting a disorganized and hesitant performance from the Drua. Tim Horan, a former Wallabies player, criticized the halves combination of Simione Kuruvoli and Caleb Muntz for failing to influence the game effectively.
Co-captain Tevita Ikanivere acknowledged the team’s mindset needs a shift, especially concerning their struggles in away games. This loss adds to a concerning trend for the Drua, who have faced difficulties away from home, marking an opportunity for introspection during the bye week before they host the Crusaders in Suva on April 5.
Despite this setback, there is a potent undercurrent of optimism. Players like Rakuro and Waqa have shown promise, and the unwavering support from fans signals that brighter days could be on the horizon. With focused preparation during their time off, the Drua can address their performance issues, build on their talents, and harness the spirit of resilience that defines Fijian rugby as they aim for improved outcomes in the upcoming matches.
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