Rob takes back seat

ROB Valetini boasts a stack of Wallabies caps and is one of rugby’s hottest prospects, but even he had to settle for the role of little brother on Saturday night.

Before his Brumbies claimed a third straight win, brother Kemu had produced a magical sporting moment, slotting a penalty goal after the siren to earn Fijian Drua a huge upset win against the Crusaders in his Super Rugby Pacific debut.

In memorable scenes, the packed crowd in Lautoka was in raptures celebrating their first win in Fiji since entering the competition last year.

For 28-year-old Kemu, it was the culmination of a lengthy journey to earn his debut, but also his chance to start a new chapter in his domestic competition.

Brother Rob, 24, admitted it was a special family moment, seeing Kemu shine in their heritage nation, in front of family and on a ground their father had played on in the past.

“He’ll definitely be the favourite child now winning in Fiji … I’m just really happy for the family,” Rob said.

“I was stoked just to see him get on. He was only on for about five minutes and got all the glory at the end there.

“I was definitely really happy for him. I called the parents after the game too and they were real happy.

“He’s been on a long journey as well, through a lot of injuries and he’s been around the same rugby scenes around the world.”

Kemu spent a season at the Melbourne Rebels development side before heading for a stint in Spain, but earned his Drua contract via impressive form last season at Shute Shield side Manly.