A remarkable performance by Lachie Anderson secured the Queensland Reds a commanding 52-7 victory over the Fijian Drua during a Super Rugby Pacific finals warm-up match on Saturday. Anderson’s outstanding first half saw him score four tries, setting a new Reds record and becoming only the third Australian in Super Rugby history to achieve this feat, following in the footsteps of Joe Roff and Drew Mitchell.
Anderson’s first three tries came within a span of just ten minutes while the Drua were a player down due to a yellow card, further highlighting his sharpness and opportunistic play. He rounded off his performance with a fourth try just before halftime, assisted by a well-placed cross-field kick from flyhalf Tom Lynagh. This victory was a testament to Anderson’s exceptional form following a solid season since joining from the rugby sevens and Melbourne Rebels.
In addition to Anderson’s contributions, Test centre Josh Flook returned confidently from a hamstring injury to also score a try, while Filipo Daugunu’s entry from the bench bolstered the Reds’ performance with a late try. Joe Brial capped off the evening with a try at the final whistle.
Conversely, the Drua struggled to find their footing, finishing their campaign second-last after gaining only four wins in their fourth season. They managed just a single try through Haereiti Hetet, while their defensive lapses, exemplified by two yellow cards for Iosefa Masi and Etonia Waqa, cost them dearly. This match represented yet another missed opportunity for the Drua, who have shown flashes of potential but failed to secure victories in tough matches.
Despite the loss, both teams showcased the tenacity and passion that define Fijian rugby. The electrifying atmosphere of the match served as a reminder of the community’s unwavering support for their teams.
As the Reds prepare for a sudden-death quarterfinal against the formidable Crusaders, they can take solace in their current form and the contributions of players like Anderson, who have shown the ability to turn matches in their favor. For the Drua, the focus will be on analyzing this setback and finding ways to improve as they regroup for next season. The spirit and support from their fans will be crucial as they seek to build confidence and consistency going forward.
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