The Fijian Drua celebrated a thrilling victory against the Wellington Hurricanes at Lautoka’s Churchill Park, managing to secure their first win of the season in a match filled with challenging weather conditions. Despite heavy rain, the Drua’s resilience shone through as they showcased their ability to adapt to the slick, muddy field.
The match kicked off with a strong start from the Drua, as Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula successfully converted a penalty goal in the 5th minute, putting them in the lead at 3-0. However, the team faced early difficulties as their defense struggled to stay organized, a recurring issue that has plagued them since the start of the season.
The Hurricanes capitalized on this lapse. Halfback Cam Roigard tactically exploited the Drua’s slow resets by quickly taking taps after penalties. This allowed the Hurricanes to spread the play effectively, leading to a try from left winger Fehi Fineanganofo. The Drua appeared poised to respond, but Tuidraki Samusamuvodre dropped the ball near the try zone, missing a critical scoring opportunity.
The Hurricanes continued to demonstrate their strength with their forward pack, employing their infamous ‘pick and drive’ strategy, which proved challenging for the Drua’s defensive line. Young flanker Pita Lakai scored the Hurricanes’ second try, though Jodie Barrett missed the subsequent conversion attempt.
In an effort to bolster their lineup, the Drua featured former Sevens star Joji Nasova, who actively pursued high balls to regain possession. The Drua’s efforts yielded fruit when flanker Motikai Murray scored a powerful try, successfully converted by Armstrong-Ravula, leveling the match at 10-10.
However, a costly error by Inia Tabuavou allowed the Hurricanes to regain their lead. Tabuavou, who was introduced following an injury to Isikeli Rabitu, turned the ball over in their own 22-meter zone. The Hurricanes capitalized on this mistake, resulting in a try by Billy Proctor, which Barrett converted to establish a 17-13 advantage at halftime.
As the second half commenced, the rain subsided but the field remained difficult. Barrett extended the Hurricanes’ lead with a long-range penalty soon after the break. Yet, the Drua rebounded spectacularly, with Samusamuvodre intercepting a high kick and racing downfield to score, leveling the match again at 20-20.
With momentum on their side, the Drua played aggressively, and in the 65th minute, blindside flanker Etonia Waqa scored a try along the sideline, although the conversion was missed. Nevertheless, the Drua were determined in their defense during the closing minutes, with Frank Lomani standing out with impressive tackles against the Hurricanes’ formidable forwards.
Ultimately, the Fijian Drua clinched a hard-fought victory with a final score of 25-20, igniting hope and enthusiasm in their fan base as they look to build on this triumphant performance for the rest of the season. This win not only marks a crucial turning point but also reinforces the Drua’s belief in their capability to thrive under pressure.
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