The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua put up a commendable performance in their Round 4 Super Rugby Pacific match against the Chiefs in Hamilton tonight despite a 46-29 defeat.
The game kicked off with Iosefo Masi breaking the Chiefs’ defensive line to score a stunning solo try in the 6th minute, converted by Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula.
However, the Chiefs quickly responded with Daniel Rona capitalizing on a gap in the Drua’s defense to find Kaylum Boshier to the try-line with Damian McKenzie, leveling the score at 7-7.
Further into the first half, Cortez Ratima extended the Chiefs’ lead with another try, also converted by McKenzie.
Not to be outdone, Masi showed his speed and skill once again, scoring his second try of the match, with Armstrong-Ravula converting to bring the score to 14-14.
As the match progressed, the Chiefs’ Rona scored his second try, pushing their lead further.
Despite this, the Drua remained determined, with Armstrong-Ravula kicking a penalty goal to narrow the gap to 24-17 at halftime.
Fijian Drua made several substitutions in the second spell to inject fresh energy into the team.
Peni Matawalu was brought in for some game time, replacing Simione Kuruvoli.
Kemu Valetini entered the field, taking over from Michael Naitokani. Elia Canakaivata was subbed in for Captain Meli Derenalagi, and Taniela Rakuro replaced Iliesa Junior Ratuva.
Emosi Tuqiri came on for Haereiti Hetet, while Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta replaced Etonia Waqa
Chiefs extended their lead with tries from Etene Nanai-Seturo and Boshier’s second of the match, both converted by McKenzie.
The hosts contiinued to dominate with McKenzie converting a penalty and the team adding another try through Shaun Stevenson.
However, the Drua fought back valiantly and their third try came from replacement lock Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula converting the try successfully.
Later, in the 80th minute, Drua made a strong push, with Kemu Valetini managing to score a try in the corner after it was spun out-wide by Matawau from the base of a ruck.
However, Ravula’s attempt at the conversion from the touchline missed as the final hooter sounded to end the match.
The Fijian Drua will return home tomorrow to prepare for their second home match next Saturday against the Waratahs at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
