NSW Waratahs head coach Dan McKellar expressed pride in his team’s resilience following their narrow 29-24 victory over the Fijian Drua in Sydney, a match that showcased the Waratahs’ determination to remain unbeaten early in the Super Rugby Pacific season. The match, held at Allianz Stadium, saw passionate support from Fijian fans who rallied behind their team, eager for a win.
The Waratahs’ victory hinged on a late penalty try awarded by referee Angus Mabey after Drua’s Kitione Salawa was yellow-carded for preventing a driving maul, ultimately sealing the match for the home side. Coach McKellar noted that this win reflects a newfound mental toughness, stating, “Talking to the boys, they all agree that in the past they would have lost that game.”
The Drua, who have now experienced three heart-wrenching defeats in a row, including previous close losses against the Brumbies and Hurricanes, fought hard but fell just short. Their early lead was established by winger Ponipate Loganimasi’s first try, which was quickly matched by Waratahs back-rower Langi Gleeson to set the tone for a back-and-forth battle.
Gleeson was a standout performer, claiming two tries and making significant defensive contributions, including two critical hold-ups against opposing players near the try line during a tense second half. He remarked on the special nature of competing against his Fijian counterparts, demonstrating the camaraderie that exists amidst the competitive spirit.
As both teams showcased their contrasting styles—the Waratahs relying on strategic execution and tactical discipline, while the Drua focused on high-energy, free-flowing play—the match emphasized the growing skills and resilience of the Drua, despite their disappointing start to the season. Coach Glen Jackson of the Drua highlighted the importance of learning from their narrow defeats, particularly the need for better discipline and execution under pressure.
Looking forward, both squads have plenty to build upon, bringing a mix of optimism and learning experiences into the rest of their campaign. While the Drua will aim to harness the lessons learned from closely contested matches, the Waratahs will seek to continue their unbeaten run, with both teams poised for exciting challenges in the weeks ahead. The atmosphere surrounding their journey remains hopeful, encouraging players and fans alike to stay positive as they navigate through this competitive season.
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