Moana Pasifika head coach Tana Umaga anticipates a challenging weekend ahead.
“We have to get in there and give them the best of ourselves and we see how it goes,” Umaga said.
Umaga acknowledges that his team has produced their best results this season and is determined to secure another positive outcome tomorrow.
“Obviously it’s the best in terms of results, it’s been a long time coming for the club.”
The former All Blacks player commended the efforts of Moana Pasifika’s past coaches, recognizing their contributions to the team’s progress.
“Good work done by predecessors, they came here last year and got close points and we just want to emulate what they have done and work hard for each other.
Umaga strongly emphasizes the importance of securing a victory for his team.
“Every team goes into the match thinking of win no team wants to go into the weak or lose.
“We know we still got chances so as the Drua, but we know it’s going to be hard, we look forward to the opportunity that comes on Saturday,” he added.
In their first meeting this season on March 2 – dubbed the Battle of the Pacific – both the Drua and Moana Pasifika delivered an exhilarating showdown. The match, featuring a total of 10 tries, showcased the epitome of Pasifika finesse and physical prowess as each team crossed the try line five times.
Despite facing adversity, with only 13 men on the field for the majority of the final 15 minutes, Moana Pasifika rallied and clinched a hard-fought 39-36 victory.
The highly anticipated rematch is set to take place in Lautoka tomorrow, promising another thrilling encounter between these two Pacific rugby powerhouses.
Meanwhile for the Moana Pasifika will have the same starting lineup that defeated the Reds in Round 8.
The only changes are off the bench with Lotu Inisi making a return following a concussion against the Blues in Round 6.
Jonathan Taumateine and Neria Fomai also earn their first run of the season, both working their way back into the playing side after recovering from injuries.
