The Fiji Times

Prediction­s and tips

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Fijian Drua v Waratahs preview

Fijian Drua have looked in fine form this season especially with ball in hand. They have struggled defensivel­y, but I don’t see the Force having enough possession to really test the hosts who are very strong in Fiji.

The best bet is for the hosts to win by more than 11 points.

Head to Head

Western Force have won both of their previous matches against Fijian Drua. They last met in 2023, a game the Force won 20-18.

Fijian Drua form

Fijian Drua have won two of their five matches to date and are currently eighth on the table.

From an attacking perspectiv­e, the Drua are always dangerous, and they have shown that this season. Defensivel­y they struggled in round two against Moana which cost them a victory, but since then, they have been consistent.

The Drua beat the Crusaders 20-10 at home in round three, before losing 46-29 at the Chiefs. Last weekend the Fijian outfit were magnificen­t against the Waratahs, winning a thrilling encounter 39-36 at home.

Team news

The Drua will see this as an opportunit­y to get back-to-back victories as they look to climb the table. I do not expect many changes to their side.

Western Force form

The Western Force are second from bottom, three points clear of the Crusaders. They have managed one win to date.

The Perth-based outfit has, quite frankly, looked rather poor this season on most occasions. They were hammered at home by the Hurricanes in round one before losing to the Rebels the following week. A decent performanc­e against the Brumbies in Canberra saw them go down by three points.

Moana then won 22-14 in Perth a fortnight ago so not much was expected last week against the highflying Reds. However, out of nowhere, the Force produced a sublime performanc­e, winning the game 40-31 at home.

Team news

The Force, like their opposition, will want to get back-to-back wins under the belt. A strong side is expected with no injuries confirmed.

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