Drua to open 2026 season with fiery home clash against Moana Pasifika in Lautoka
The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will kick off their 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign with a blockbuster home showdown against Moana Pasifika on February 14 at Churchill Park in Lautoka. The clash will mark the Drua’s sixth season and underline the fierce Pacific rivalry that continues to define the competition.
Past results show the Drua have had the upper hand in the head-to-head, winning four of their six encounters with Moana Pasifika. Churchill Park, the Drua’s fortress, has been pivotal in their recent form, with the team winning 10 of 12 matches there since 2022 and riding a nine-game winning streak at the venue. The last meeting at Churchill Park was a gripping 40–35 victory for the Drua.
Head coaches Glen Jackson and Fa’alogo Tana Umaga both welcomed the season-opening fixture, highlighting the passion and energy that define Pacific rugby. Jackson emphasized the boost of starting at home in Lautoka in front of devoted supporters, calling it the perfect kickstart to the campaign. Umaga noted that starting the year in Fiji against a familiar foe would be a special test, celebrating Pasifika flair and power.
What to watch for
– The Drua’s home-ground advantage at Lautoka and how it translates to a strong start to 2026
– The ongoing Pacific rivalry with Moana Pasifika and the physical, high-tempo style both teams bring
– The impact of a full home crowd on energy, focus, and game-day performance
Summary: The season begins with the Drua hosting Moana Pasifika at Churchill Park in Lautoka on February 14, setting an intense, high-energy tone for 2026 and further cementing the importance of home form in their campaign.
Positive note: If the Drua continue to leverage their Lautoka fortress and maintain the competitive edge they’ve shown in recent seasons, they could launch a memorable and momentum-building 2026 campaign for players and supporters alike.
Additional context and value
– This opening clash not only kicks off the campaign but also showcases the strong bond and rivalry within Pacific rugby, a narrative that resonates with fans across Fiji and the Pacific region.
– The Lautoka crowd’s support is likely to be a catalytic factor early in the season, potentially helping the Drua set a confident tone for the months ahead.
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