Fijian Drua must stick to winning ways
The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua needs to win tonight’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash against Western Force to edge closer to a playoff spot.
The Mick Byrne-coached side is currently ranked eighth and is four points ahead of Force.
Tonight’s clash is an uphill battle since Force has an unbeaten run on their home ground at HBF Park in Perth. Head coach Simon Cron wants them to defend that record. After the Drua’s 27-24 win over the Hurricanes, stand-in captain Tevita Ikainivere highlighted the importance of getting back to their winning ways.
“We are aiming to win a spot in the quarterfinal,” he said.
“The top eight finish is in our hands, if we win our games.” Byrne has made sure that they are ready to physically confront the bigger Force forwards.
He has named Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta at lock to partner Isoa Nasilasila and Joseva Tamani has returned to blindside flanker while Vilive Miramira is back to No.7. Captain Meli Derenalagi is at No.8 to face the aggressive Rahbni Vosayaco of the Force.
In the front row an interesting battle looms when Haereiti Hetet goes head-to-head with veteran Tom Robertson while Ikanivere meets Folau Fainga’a at hooker. Cron has recalled Roberston and Fainga’a for this most important clash against the Fijians.
Backs
In the backs, Force and Flying Fijian winger Manasa Mataele will face Eroni Sau.
Another tussle will be at halfback where Frank Lomani takes on Issak Fines-Leleiwasa while former Reds second five eight Hsamish Stewart is to contain Kalaveti Ravouvou.
At fullback, Force has selected former Chiefs and Hurricanes rep Chase Tiatia while Byrne has opted for Ilaisa Droasese.
The match kicks off at 9.35pm.