Captain Karalaini Naisewa of the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support throughout the 2025 Super W season, even as the team’s journey came to an end. The Drua faced a challenging semifinal against the Queensland Reds, where they lost 54-40 despite a valiant effort that showcased their resilience.
In a match marked by contrasting halves, the Drua found themselves trailing significantly at halftime, 42-5. However, they mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, scoring five tries, and narrowing the deficit. Naisewa herself contributed two tries during this fightback, demonstrating her leadership on the field.
“I thank you all for always supporting the girls; the fans are always behind us no matter what,” Naisewa said in a post-match statement. She acknowledged the disappointment of not securing the win but emphasized that such challenges are part of rugby. “We look forward to coming back bigger and better next year,” she added, capturing the hopeful spirit of her team.
This season’s end marks the first time in four years that the Drua will not advance to the finals, but the captain’s remarks reflect the growth and determination of the squad. Coach Ifereimi Rawaqa has expressed optimism about the squad’s potential and the lessons learned throughout the competition, reinforcing the belief that their hard work will yield greater successes in the years to come.
The Drua’s performance this season highlights the increasing competitive nature of women’s rugby in the Pacific region, inspiring future generations of players and maintaining a robust support system from their fans. The combination of experience and emerging talent gives a hopeful outlook for the Drua’s journey ahead in women’s rugby.
Leave a comment