Byrne makes changes to suit weather conditions
In a tactical move, the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has opted to have three kickers start ing against the Queensland Reds in tomorrow’s crucial clash in Suva. Drua head coach Mick Byrne has named Frank Lomani at halfback with Caleb Muntz at No.10 while Teti Tela has been moved to second- five eight.
For the match to be played under wet conditions, the Drua’s ploy is to use their kickers to pin the Reds into their half where they could pressure them into mistakes.
In a surprise move, Byrne has moved Kalaveti Ravouvou to the wing where he marks Suliasi Vunivalu while Eroni Sau is to contain strong running Filipo Daugunu. Tela will have a mammoth task of marking Hunter Paisami at No.12 while Iosefo Masi battles the impressive Josh Flook at centre. Masi who is in his debut season is currently third on the Super Rugby try scoring list while Flook has been named in the Wallabies squad.
The Drua has opted to play Selestino Ravutaumada at fullback while Reds have got Jock Campbell.
In the forwards an interesting battle looms in the front row where Reds tighthead prop Peni Ravai takes on Haereiti Hetet.
Isoa Nasilasila gets his 15th start for the Drua at lock where he partners Leone Rotuisolia. They take on the experienced Angus Blyth and Ryan Smith.
Blyth has been the Reds hitman this season when he copped a suspension for a dangerous hit on Corey Toole of the Brumbies.
Vilive Miramira gets another start at No.7 where he faces former Fijian Under-20 Seru Uru who is at blindside while Joseva Tamani of the Drua gets another go at Fraser McReight.
Captain Meli Derenalagi gets to start at No.8 while Reds have opted for the impressive Harry Wilson.
Reserve bench
Byrne has gone for five forwards and three backs on the reserve bench. The return of Mesulame Dolokoto is a great boost along with Meli Tuni and Samuela Tawake. Etonia Waqa is on a standby for the locking position while Elia Canakaivata is there for the loosies.
Peni Matawalu leads the backline on the bench along with Kemu Valetini and Michael Naitokani.
Reds head coach Brad Thorn has taken a similar approach indicating that the outcome of this match will be determine on who has the upper hand in the forwards.
Drua will take on Reds at 4:35pm at the HFC Bank Stadium tomorow.