Fijian Drua fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling opening match of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season at home, with chief executive Mark Evans optimistic about attracting a crowd exceeding 10,000 for their matchup against the Brumbies. This upcoming game marks the first time the Australian side will visit Suva, scheduled for Saturday.
Evans has noted a significant increase in online ticket sales as an encouraging sign of the Drua’s expanding fanbase. “I was a little unsure about the Brumbies and how they’d go, but at the moment, I think we would be over 10,000,” he remarked. The growth in online ticket purchases has become a reliable indicator of the team’s popularity, with year-on-year increases observed.
In addition to the online sales, Evans emphasized the Drua’s commitment to making tickets accessible for all fans. Options remain available for those who prefer to buy tickets in person at locations like Jack’s and the Sports Council in both Suva and Lautoka. “You have to give people choices,” he stated, acknowledging that many fans still prefer traditional purchasing methods.
As ticket sales continue to gather pace, Evans mentioned that they are currently tracking at about “10 and a half thousand,” although he is aware that last-minute surges in ticket purchases can occur. Historically, tickets for stadium grandstand seats are the first to sell out, and the overall occupancy trends tend to vary between the Suva and Lautoka venues.
Last year, the Drua achieved a milestone by selling out during a match against the Hurricanes at the HFC Bank Stadium, which boasts a capacity of 15,000. Supporters are excited, with the match set to kick off at 3:30 PM tomorrow, promising a lively atmosphere for rugby enthusiasts.
This growing momentum around the Drua not only highlights the enhancing sports culture in Fiji but also reflects a community rallying around their team, bringing hope for an engaging and successful season ahead.
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