Drua after good results
THE Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is aiming for a positive result in the two remaining matches of the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Fijian Drua face the Crusaders in Christchurch, New Zealand this Friday and then host the Chiefs at Churchill
Park in Lautoka on Saturday week.
Participating in the inaugural season, the Fijian Drua is placed in 11th position, one above wooden spoon holders Moana Pasifika.
Fijian Drua coach Mick Byrne said they wanted to finish the competition on a high note.
“Obviously we want to win both games,” Byrne said.
“We understand that it is a big challenge for us playing the Crusaders in Christchurch who are coming off a good win.
“With a short turnaround period, it is going to be a challenge but the boys will be up for that challenge.
“Then we will be back on the flight on Sunday and head over to another home crowd in Lautoka the following week against the Chiefs.
“So it is a couple of big weeks of travel for us. We certainly are looking to put in a great performance for us internally and also for our fans.”
Meanwhile, Fijian Drua number 8 lock Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta has been ruled out of the Crusaders fixture.
Cirikidaveta received a knock to his nose against Moana Pasifika last week and was assisted off the field.
Byrne said it was a shame for Cirikidaveta because he was one of the consistent players in the past few weeks.
“It is a shame for us and a shame for him that he doesn’t get to play in his franchise area,” Byrne said.
“He is a Tasman boy and would have loved to go in with the Crusaders boys.”