The Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women faced an uphill battle against the Queensland Reds in Round 2 of the Super W competition, narrowly losing 22-19 at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Despite their spirited effort, handling errors played a significant role in the Drua’s missed scoring opportunities throughout the match.
The Reds capitalized on the Drua’s early mistakes, scoring the first try after intercepting a pass from Vika Matarugu, with co-captain Jemma Bemrose sprinting to the corner. Additional penalties further hindered the Drua’s progress, which culminated in number eight Karalaini Naisewa receiving a yellow card. This allowed the Reds to establish a comfortable 17-0 lead by halftime, bolstered by another try from openside flanker Carola Kreis.
In a display of resilience during the second half, the Drua began to claw their way back into the game, scoring their first try with just over 12 minutes remaining. Reserve hooker Loraini Senivutu broke through, followed closely by a second try from Naisewa, reducing the deficit. The team’s determination was evident as they earned a late penalty try, yet the Reds held firm to secure their first victory of the season.
This match not only showcased the Drua’s potential but also underscored the growth of women’s rugby in the Pacific region. The strong performance of players, especially siblings such as Karalaini Naisewa and Keleni Marawa, highlighted the unity within the team, serving as an inspiring model for unity and support in sports.
Support from fans remains strong, fueling optimism that the Drua can build on this performance and enhance the visibility of women’s rugby in the region. The excitement and passion surrounding the sport promise a bright future, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams in rugby. As the Drua continue to refine their skills and strategies in upcoming matches, the community looks forward to seeing how they will evolve and compete in the tournament ahead.
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