The Fijian Drua are gearing up for a critical match against the Chiefs this Saturday at 3:35 PM at Churchill Park in Lautoka. As they look to secure their first victory of the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, the Drua are eager to leverage their home advantage after facing three tough losses against the Brumbies, Hurricanes, and Waratahs.
Captain Frank Lomani highlighted the need for discipline, especially in the game’s closing moments—stressing the importance of ball retention and minimizing errors. He remarked, “We just need to keep the ball more, cut down on errors, and make sure we finish strong in the last 20 minutes.” This focus on closing out games reflects the team’s determination to improve after narrowly missing out on wins.
Chiefs captain Tupou Vaa’i acknowledged the formidable challenge that the Drua present on their home turf, particularly under Fiji’s hot and humid conditions. He pointedly noted, “We know that the heat won’t be on our side. The Fijians are a tough team to beat at home, so it’s a big challenge for us to play our game and handle whatever comes our way.” Traditionally, the Drua have been a tough opponent on home soil, and their history makes them a team not to be taken lightly.
Adding to the intrigue of the match is the rivalry between Drua forwards coach Chris Gibbes and his brother, Jono Gibbes, who is an assistant coach for the Chiefs. This family connection brings an interesting dynamic to the contest, enhancing the stakes for both coaching staffs.
Drua head coach Glen Jackson has implemented strategic changes to bolster the team’s forward pack as they prepare for the Chiefs. With enthusiastic support expected from local fans at Churchill Park, the coaching staff remains optimistic about transforming their recent narrow losses into a positive outcome.
This upcoming clash represents more than just a pursuit of points; it is a crucial chance for the Drua to foster team spirit and rebuild confidence. Featuring a blend of veteran players and promising newcomers, the Drua hope to turn the tide this season by delivering a captivating performance. Fans are hopeful that this match could mark a significant turning point, reinvigorating the Drua’s competitive aspirations as the season progresses.
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