Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s playoff aspirations in the Super Rugby Pacific face a crucial test as they prepare for a must-win encounter against the NSW Waratahs at Lautoka this Saturday. Coach Glen Jackson is urging his team to channel the lessons learned from their recent loss to the Highlanders, where they fell 20-43, as they look to secure victory in their final matches to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Jackson emphasized the importance of coming out strong, noting, “We we are getting tired of saying we should’ve won that game. This week is about fronting up.” He believes that if the Drua can win this crucial match, it could set them on a winning streak. “You win this one and you can get on a roll,” he stated, recalling past experiences where a single win sparked momentum for the team.
Despite facing injury setbacks, with players like Frank Lomani and Ratu Meli Derenalagi out for the season, the return of Kitione Salawa to the squad offers a welcome boost. Jackson remains optimistic about their chances, particularly after a narrow loss to the Waratahs in their previous encounter, which he sees as additional motivation for his players.
The Drua have struggled with slow starts in matches, a point Jackson has highlighted ahead of this pivotal clash. “Most games, we haven’t started well. That’s certainly a focus this week, starting strong at home in Lautoka,” he remarked.
With local supporters expected to rally behind the team at Churchill Park, this match represents not just a chance to earn vital points but also an opportunity for the Drua to demonstrate resilience and growth amid adversity. The connection between the players and their fans is vital; creating a spirited atmosphere could very well influence the outcome of the game.
In short, while challenges have been plenty, the Fijian Drua stand at a turning point. With determination and community support, they have a chance to ignite hope and inspire belief in their journey ahead.
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