The Fijian Drua are gearing up for a pivotal Super Rugby Pacific clash against the NSW Waratahs this Friday night, despite facing hurdles such as fatigue from travel and recent narrow losses. Following their heart-wrenching defeat of 38-34 to the Hurricanes last Saturday, where the Drua led until the dying moments, head coach Glen Jackson has acknowledged the challenges that their current travel schedule could impose on performance.
Reflecting on the match against the Hurricanes, Jackson cited issues in preparation due to late arrivals at both their travel destinations and hotel accommodations. “We played some really good rugby, scored some beautiful tries and we bombed a couple of tries too, unfortunately,” he commented, underscoring the fine margins of defeat.
As they nestle into preparation for the Waratahs, Jackson emphasized that every point earned in the competition is crucial. Notable for their competitive edge, the Drua have already showcased their capability to contend robustly against formidable opponents. However, the frustration of late slip-ups in both matches has been palpable among fans and players.
The path to the Waratahs match includes a challenging journey, with the Drua traveling via Canberra. Yet, Jackson maintains a positive outlook, viewing the two points gained from recent performances as “half a win,” and recognizing the proximity of competition among teams in the league. This perspective fuels their ambition to use recent experiences as a foundation to uplift their spirits as they head into the next match.
Notably, adjustments to the lineup are anticipated, including the return of young forward Etonia Waqa from injury, which is expected to strengthen the squad. “We are certainly going to make some changes,” Jackson mentioned, indicating a strategic approach to rejuvenate the team’s dynamics.
With the kickoff scheduled for 8:35 PM at Allianz Stadium, a hopeful atmosphere surrounds the Drua. As the team aims to demonstrate resilience and execute their game plan effectively, both players and supporters are ignited with optimism that this game could herald a turning point in their season. The determination to push through challenges embodies a spirit of progress and tenacity that is bound to inspire both the team and its fanbase throughout the ongoing Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
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