The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua faced another tough challenge in the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, suffering a disappointing defeat to the Highlanders, with the final score being 43-20. This loss adds to the team’s string of struggles, marking their continued challenges on the road as they seek their first win of the season.
The Highlanders made a swift start, with debutant Taniela Filimone scoring two tries in the opening ten minutes to give the hosts a 12-0 lead. Despite several attempts to respond, the Drua were hampered by handling errors that prevented them from converting opportunities into points. They eventually got on the scoreboard through a penalty kick from Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula but were unable to keep pace with the Highlanders, who extended their lead to 17-3 by halftime.
Returning to the field with renewed determination, the Drua’s locks Josefa Tamani and Isikeli Rabitu demonstrated impressive skills, leading to a try and narrowing the gap to 17-8. However, the Highlanders quickly countered, capitalizing on the Drua’s mistakes, including a sin bin penalty that allowed them to extend their lead further.
Despite spirited efforts, including an electrifying 50-meter chip-and-chase try from Ponipate Loganimasi that brought the score to 24-20, the Drua were unable to maintain momentum in the face of the Highlanders’ tactical play. The match concluded with the Highlanders solidifying their victory with additional tries, leaving the Drua with much to contemplate as they prepare for future matches.
As the Drua navigate this challenging season, there are silver linings to consider. They have shown flashes of potential, particularly in the performance of players like Loganimasi and the resilience displayed throughout the match. The support from dedicated fans remains unwavering, fostering hope that the lessons learned through these tough encounters will help the team improve.
With their next game on the horizon, the Drua have an opportunity to regroup, learn from their past experiences, and transform their promising plays into tangible results. The essence of Fijian rugby resilience could prove to be pivotal as they push forward in search of that elusive victory.
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