The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua are preparing for a pivotal match against the Chiefs this Saturday, with aspirations to secure their first victory in the Super Rugby Pacific season. The team has experienced a string of near-misses, losing by narrow margins: 32-36 to the Brumbies, 34-38 against the Hurricanes, and 24-29 to the Waratahs. Head coach Glen Jackson expressed optimism for the upcoming game at Lautoka’s Churchill Park, indicating that the Drua will leverage the support of their home crowd to revitalize their performance.
Jackson pointed out the need for the team to achieve at least seven wins, along with bonus points, to stay competitive in the league amidst intensified competition due to the absence of the Melbourne Rebels. He reflected on their challenging season, acknowledging that they have not played to their full potential in past matches but believes the home advantage will boost their chances. He stated, “We’ve let ourselves down in some matches, but returning home will create an exciting atmosphere for us.”
Captain Tevita Ikanivere echoed Jackson’s sentiments, expressing disappointment over missed opportunities in previous games and urging for a unified effort as they gear up for the powerful Chiefs. The Drua’s mix of emerging talent and experienced players fosters a sense of hope, with many seeing this fixture as a potential turning point for their season.
This matchup carries great significance for the Drua, as they aim to transform their recent struggles into positive momentum. The anticipated electric atmosphere from local fans is expected to propel the team forward, igniting new hope for supporters of Fijian rugby. With determination and resilience, the Drua are set to confront the Chiefs, with a collective focus on achieving that elusive first win of the season.
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