The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua celebrated a momentous achievement with a thrilling 28-24 victory against the previously undefeated Chiefs during Round 4 of the Shop N Save Super Rugby season. This marked the Drua’s first win of the season, highlighting the team’s resilience and ability to thrive under pressure, particularly after enduring close defeats in earlier matches.
After the game, Captain Frank Lomani expressed his joy, attributing the hard-earned victory to the steadfast support of the local fans in Lautoka. He acknowledged the team’s struggles in past games and emphasized how the momentum gained over the weeks finally bore fruit. Lomani remarked, “It’s special to this group because we owe our fans,” underscoring the critical role of supporters who braved adverse weather conditions to show their encouragement.
The Drua encountered a rocky start, trailing 12-6 at halftime due to two early tries from the Chiefs. However, they regrouped in the second half, with Lomani stressing their determination to address one of their key weaknesses: closing out games effectively. A pivotal moment arose when Meli Derenalagi scored a try, followed by contributions from Vuate Karawalevu and Ponipate Loganimasi, leading to a clinching late penalty by Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula that secured the victory.
This win not only handed the Chiefs their first loss of the season but also marked a significant turning point for the Drua, fostering renewed optimism within the Fijian rugby community. Head coach Glen Jackson lauded the improvements from key players, suggesting that this victory could catalyze a positive trend for the rest of the season.
Looking ahead, the Drua aims to leverage this momentum as they prepare to face the Brumbies at GIO Stadium. With the enthusiastic backing of their supporters and a boost in confidence, there is a palpable sense of hope for a successful campaign.
This victory highlights the team’s potential while reinforcing the vital role of community support in achieving success in the competitive arena of Super Rugby. As they continue their journey, the Drua exemplifies resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of Fijian rugby and inspiring fans everywhere.
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