As the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua prepare to face the Gallagher Chiefs this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka, coach Glen Jackson has highlighted the impressive performances of Tuidraki Samusamuvodre. He praised the young center’s skill and agility, noting that Samusamuvodre has worked diligently on his game since the Drua’s inception.
“Tui’s been here since the start of the Drua,” said Jackson. “He hasn’t always had a lot of opportunities, but he has worked really hard, and I’m just stoked for him that he has been able to play a lot of minutes already in the first three games.”
In the ongoing Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, Samusamuvodre has been a pivotal contributor. He has played a total of 180 minutes over the last three matches, which included stepping in as a starter for Iosefo Masi. His statistics reflect a productive run: he gained 49 meters, made 14 carries, achieved a clean break, and showed effective offloading skills. Defensively, he maintained a 52 percent success rate with 11 tackles.
Jackson expressed confidence in Samusamuvodre’s capabilities and growth throughout the season. “He’s a kid that’s worked really hard and deserves everything he’s getting at the moment,” he added, underlining the importance of his inclusion for the team’s overall performance.
Currently, the Chiefs are leading the Super Rugby Pacific standings, while the Drua find themselves in 10th place. After facing three narrow defeats—32-36 against the Brumbies, 34-38 against the Hurricanes, and 24-29 against the Waratahs—Jackson emphasized the significance of this upcoming match. He believes that a strong performance on home soil could turn the tide for the Drua.
Captain Tevita Ikanivere has also reflected on the team’s recent struggles, emphasizing the urgency for improved focus during close games. Meanwhile, the team’s local fan base is expected to play a critical role, providing the much-needed support as the Drua seek their first win of the season.
This match represents a promising opportunity for the Drua not only to secure essential points but also to build momentum moving forward. The hope is that the blend of experience and youthful talent will lead to a breakthrough performance, energizing both the team and their supporters.
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