Nacewa backs Drua’s growth
What the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is able to achieve in a short time is phenomenal according to former Flying Fijian Isakeli (Isa) Nacewa. Speaking on a radio talkback show on NewsTalk NB, on Tuesday Nacewa, 40, says while the team is fairly new to the competition, their achievement makes them now a target for other teams.
“This is what rugby needs, and the introduction of the Drua is the best thing to happen to rugby in a long time,” Nacewa said.
Nacewa a utility back is of Fijian descent born in New Zealand.
The former Auckland Blues in the Super Rugby competition was also a coach. He represented Fiji at the 2003 Rugby World Cup.
“It’s phenomenal what the Drua has achieved in so little time and what Frank Lomani said after the match that they did it for everyone on the isles, epitomizes what this team is about.”
Nacewa’s glittering career included stints with Leinster in Ireland. “Drua’s introduction is better than teams like the Sunwolves and their competitiveness was on show even last year when they almost beat the Reds, Highlanders, Force, Chiefs and gave a mighty scare to the Blues.
“So they have grabbed the opportunity with both hands and have grown immensely,” the Nadroga native said.
Nacewa said the 25-24 win over the Crusaders in round three is a boost to the side that fancies throwing the ball around.
“The way they score tries is just amazing and that is the strength of the island teams. “They love raise tempo in high risk plays, and that is why we love watching the Fijians weave a little magic in sevens and even in fifteens,” he said.
“Now that they have the Crusaders’ scalp, they will be oozing in confidence knowing that they are able to beat other teams in the competition.
“I feel the Drua will be a real threat in the next few seasons.”
Meanwhile, after round three of matches, the Drua is in fifth spot with eight points behind leaders, Chiefs (15) who remain undefeated.
In second spot is the Brumbies (12), and sharing third spot are Blues and Hurricanes at 10 points. Drua is facing the Reds in round four of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Sunday.