The Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua women’s rugby team is set for an exciting debut this week as 17-year-old Carletta Yee will become the youngest player to ever represent the Drua during their match against the Brumbies in Round 3 of Super Rugby Women. Alongside her, seasoned Olympian Rusila Nagasau, a former captain of the Fijiana 7s team and holder of a bronze medal, will also make her debut in this crucial fixture.
Head coach Ifereimi Rawaqa has strategically reshuffled the starting lineup by including powerful prop Ana Korovata as loose-head, with Tiana Robanakadavu taking the tight-head role and last week’s standout Loraini Senivutu positioned at hooker. Carletta Yee pairs with Fuga Ofakimalino in the lock positions, while Nagasau will take on the blindside flanker role with Nunia Daunimoala on the openside and Bitila Tawake at number 8.
The backline features the experienced Setaita Railumu at halfback, pairing with Salanieta Kinita who is positioned as flyhalf. Vice-captain Vitalina Naikore transitions from center to left wing, with Repeka Tove on the right wing. Ema Adivitaloga and Merewairita Neivosa will fill the center positions, while Litiana Vueti completes the starting lineup as fullback.
The bench is also well-equipped with Keleni Marawa as backup hooker, Salanieta Nabuli, and captain Vika Matarugu ready to support the front-row positions, while Alfreda Fisher and Karalaini Naisewa provide depth in the locks and loose forwards respectively. The team seeks to make their mark after facing the Queensland Reds in a challenging season, emphasizing their growth and potential in women’s rugby.
This match is pivotal as both the Drua and the Brumbies aim for their first victory of the season, following their own struggles in previous games. With kickoff set for 3:35 PM at Churchill Park, fans are expected to rally behind the Drua in what promises to be an inspirational showcase of talent and growth for women’s rugby in Fiji.
The anticipation surrounding the emergence of young talents like Yee offers hope and inspiration to aspiring female athletes in the region, showing that with dedication and hard work, new generations can make their mark in the sporting world.
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