The Fijian Drua faced a challenging defeat against Moana Pasifika last Saturday in Lautoka, which could significantly impact their playoff aspirations. Despite the 14-point loss, there were some bright spots to consider. Head coach Glen Jackson pointed out that the Drua performed well in three-quarters of the match, although they struggled notably in the opening 20 minutes, allowing Moana to score four converted tries while dominating territory with effective kicking.
A standout moment for the Drua was the debut performance of Temo Mayanavanua, who not only showcased strong leadership on the field but also earned the Drua Player of the Match award by scoring a try. Although the Drua rallied to reduce the deficit to just seven points in the second half after trailing 21-0, giving a rival such a head start proved too challenging.
The Drua’s performance was marred by noted issues, including problems at the lineout and a total of nine penalties, along with 11 handling errors, which hindered their ability to build momentum. As they work to move past this setback, the players are aware of the importance of taking ownership and delivering an improved performance in their upcoming match against the Waratahs.
The upcoming clash in Sydney presents fresh opportunities, especially as the Drua eyes a chance to reverse their away game struggles. Historically, the Drua have faced difficulties against the Waratahs, with their last win away from home dating back to February 2023. However, they managed to secure two victories over New South Wales in recent years, including a thrilling home match that ended 39-36. Jackson’s squad will be looking to build on this momentum and capitalize on lessons learned during their last encounter.
The Drua will make six changes to their starting lineup, including two in the back row, as they gear up for an encounter that could mark a turning point for their season. Fans will be looking forward to witnessing the return of key players Frank Lomani and Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula in the halves, as well as a chance to see promising talents like Isikeli Rabitu in the field, with Jackson praising his potential and skills.
As the Drua prepares for their match, kicking off at 8:30 PM Fiji time, hopes are high for a strong performance against the Waratahs. A win would not only allow them to bounce back from the recent loss but could also set a positive tone for their ongoing campaign. With the intensity of their previous matches indicating competitive spirit, the Drua aim to prove themselves and reclaim their winning form. Toso Drua toso!
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