The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have rejuvenated their Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign with a vital 28–14 victory over the NSW Waratahs at Churchill Park in Lautoka, marking just their second win of the season and keeping their hopes for a finals appearance alive.
The home team got off to an impressive start, with fly-half Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula successfully converting two penalty kicks in the 3rd and 6th minutes. Motivated, Motikiai Murray crashed over the line for the opening try in the 11th minute, establishing early dominance for the Drua.
The Waratahs managed to respond and scored through Langi Gleeson in the 27th minute, but Ponipate Loganimasi responded with an important try just before halftime, allowing Drua to lead 18–7 at the break.
In the second half, Armstrong-Ravula extended the Drua’s lead with another penalty in the 51st minute, but the Waratahs’ substitute hooker, Julian Heaven, cut down the deficit with a try in the 58th minute. However, the match concluded in dramatic fashion in the 82nd minute when Joseph Suaalii picked up a fumbled ball at the try line, resulting in a penalty try for the Drua, solidifying their 28–14 victory.
This win boosts the Drua’s aspirations for a top-six finish in the league and reinforces their tenacity to compete despite earlier challenges in the season. Earlier matches reflected their potential but often ended in narrow defeats, a pattern that plagued them against teams such as the Brumbies.
The Drua’s performance, highlighted by teamwork and the support of their passionate fans, suggests that brighter days are ahead. As they aim for consistency and build upon this triumph, there is renewed optimism within the team and its supporters, reflecting the spirited resilience of Fijian rugby.
As they look forward to their upcoming matches, fans are hopeful that the momentum gained from this essential victory will carry them through the remainder of the season, instilling belief that they can achieve greater heights.
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