Etonia Waqa delivered an impressive performance during the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s first win of the season at their home ground in Lautoka. In a match characterized by challenging weather conditions, where the Drua achieved only 50 percent success in lineouts, Waqa played a pivotal role in disrupting the Hurricanes’ play, securing vital possession for his team.
Waqa successfully won four lineouts, contributing significantly to the Drua’s overall strategy. He capped off his outstanding return to the game by scoring a try in the 66th minute before being substituted by Vilive Miramira shortly thereafter. This match marked Waqa’s first appearance of the season after recovering from a long-term injury.
Reflecting on his comeback, Waqa shared that head coach Glen Jackson expressed gratitude for his perseverance and commitment. Despite initially aiming for Waqa to play just the first half, the coaching staff adjusted their strategy, allowing him to contribute an additional 20 minutes, which proved to be beneficial.
“Glen Jackson said, ‘Eto is a quality man, quality player,’” highlighting the trust the coaching staff has in their players as they return from injuries. Jackson noted the improvement in the Drua’s performance, mentioning that, unlike their previous two matches, they managed to play a full 80 minutes effectively this time.
This victory not only represents a significant milestone for the Fijian Drua but also showcases the resilience and talent of players like Waqa, whose return bodes well for the team’s future matches. With strong performances on the horizon, the Drua fans can remain hopeful for an exciting season ahead.
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