The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will open their 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign with a mouth-watering clash against Moana Pasifika in Lautoka on February 14, 2026. The rest of the 2026 fixtures are set to be announced soon, but fans can circle theDate as the season kick-off at the Drua’s home base.
The opening match will be staged at Churchill Park, Lautoka, the team’s so-called Fortress, and it falls on Valentine’s Day, adding a special twist for fans attending in person.
Entering their sixth season, the Drua hold a better head-to-head record against Moana Pasifika, having won four of the six prior meetings. That rivalry is sure to provide plenty of drama as two Pacific powerhouses collide to set the tone for the year.
Head coach Glen Jackson stresses that matches between the Drua and Pasifika are always fiercely contested, reflecting the passion both sides bring to the field. He also says beginning the campaign at home in front of their passionate, global fanbase offers a meaningful boost for the team’s push.
Churchill Park has been the Drua’s most successful venue, with the side winning 10 of 12 matches there since 2022, underscoring the importance of home support in the early rounds. The club has also built momentum at the Lautoka venue, currently riding a nine-game winning streak there, including a 40-35 victory over Moana Pasifika the last time the teams met at Churchill Park.
What to watch for:
– The Drua’s home-form edge at Lautoka and how it translates into a strong 2026 start.
– The ongoing rivalry with Moana Pasifika and the physical pace both teams bring.
– The impact of a full home crowd on the team’s energy and game-day performance.
Summary: The 2026 season kicks off with the Drua hosting Moana Pasifika at Churchill Park in Lautoka on February 14, promising a high-intensity start to the campaign rooted in strong home form and Pacific rivalry.
Positive note: If the Drua build on their proven home strength and keep up the competitive edge shown in recent seasons, they could set a confident tone for a memorable 2026 campaign for fans and players alike.
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