Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson is hopeful regarding the status of Iosefo Masi, who sustained a hamstring injury during a trial match against Rugby Football Club Los Angeles. The Drua are preparing for their Super Rugby opener against the Brumbies on February 15 at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Masi, a key player for the Drua, left the field before halftime, causing concern about his availability for the upcoming match. Jackson stated, “Unfortunately, Masi was over the ball and hurt his hamstring. He will get the scan, and hopefully, the injury is not too big.”

In their recent match, which ended in a 33-26 victory for the Drua, Jackson saw both positives and areas to improve before facing the Brumbies. He noted that while their set pieces functioned well, there were issues with first-phase completion and defensive softness that needed to be addressed.

Reflecting on their performance, Jackson emphasized the importance of early matches in identifying gaps and fine-tuning strategies. He praised the team’s commitment during local tournaments such as the Coral Coast Sevens and Mataso 7s for enhancing their fitness and cohesion, allowing them to gain valuable match experience.

Jackson showcased his appreciation for the competitive spirit displayed during the trial against Los Angeles, highlighting that it was a beneficial game for both teams and a way for players to shake off any rust as they gear up for the season. His comments underline a focus on continual improvement and readiness as the Drua embark on their Super Rugby journey.

The hopeful outlook surrounding Masi’s injury and the team’s preparations suggests that fans can expect a competitive performance from the Drua this season. Engaging in local competitions has not only helped in their conditioning but also fortified their team dynamics, setting a positive tone as they advance towards a new season filled with potential.