SWIRE Shipping Fijian Drua forwards coach Chris Gibbes says attitude will be key when they face the NSW Waratahs this afternoon at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Coming off a 20-43 loss to the Highlanders last week, the Drua forwards were put under pressure in the ruck and maul, and Gibbes says the side has gone back to basics in preparation for today’s clash.
“I think at the end of the day, like mauling and defensive mauling, it’s all about attitude,” Gibbes said.
“And I don’t think we came in with the right attitude last week. So we addressed that first thing on Monday.”
The seasoned coach said that while there are some technical areas they’ve focused on, the biggest challenge is making sure the players stick to the system and bring intensity.
“Technically there are a few little things we’re working on, particularly around mauling bits and pieces. The focus has been getting our guys back to what we do well nailing the basics, keeping our systems in place, and bringing some attitude. That’s the key,” he added.
Looking ahead to the 2:05pm kickoff, Gibbes is confident in the forwards named for the match.
“I think it’s a strong team. There’s an expectation that our pack will get the job done and that’s what they’re there for. The expectation is high.”
He added that the Drua have selected a forward pack built for physicality and impact.
“It’s a very aggressive, high-ball pack we’ve put out there. It’s going to be a physical game, and they need to step up.”
The match is expected to be a bruising battle up front, and the Drua forwards will be out to prove a point on home soil.
