The Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women faced a challenging defeat with a score of 47-31 against the Western Force in Perth, showcasing their competitive spirit, especially in the second half of the match. The team, captained by Vika Matarugu, made an impressive start, scoring first through Number 8 Karalaini Naisewa in the 4th minute, followed by a successful conversion from Luisa Tisolo, taking an early 7-0 lead.
The Western Force quickly responded with three consecutive tries, courtesy of players Sera Naiqama, Tamika Jones, and Pia Tapsell, which pushed them ahead 21-7. Despite the tough situation, Naisewa’s second try in the 25th minute kept the Drua within reach, but the home team’s momentum continued as they added two more tries to wrap up the first half at 33-14, with the Drua facing a setback when Vitalina Naikore received a yellow card for a dangerous tackle.
In the second half, the Drua’s Ana Korovata scored a try early on, but the Force remained dominant, with Grace Freeman further extending their lead. However, Olympic bronze medallist Aloesi Nakoci came off the bench to energize the Drua, scoring a powerful try in the 58th minute, narrowing the gap to 40-26. As the match progressed, the Drua’s resilience shone through as they continued to press, with Ema Adivitaloa adding another try.
Despite having a couple more opportunities in the closing minutes, including chances from Nakoci and Naikore, the Force’s defense held firm to secure the victory.
Reflecting on their performance, the Drua’s fighting spirit was evident, especially as they capitalized on moments of opportunity, ultimately showcasing their determination. Although this loss comes on the heels of a previous hard-fought victory against the ACT Brumbies, the team’s journey in the Super W competition highlights their growth and potential as they prepare for upcoming matches. The ongoing development of women’s rugby in the Pacific region continues to foster optimism both on and off the field, inspiring future generations of players.
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