THE McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women are just two wins away from creating another chapter in the club’s history.
Team manager Eleina McDonald urged fans to pack Churchill Park next Saturday as the side begins its Super W finals campaign against the Queensland Reds.
After finishing at the top of the Super W standings, the Drua secured the right to host a home semi-final in Lautoka, but McDonald said their impressive regular season would count for little once the knockout stages begin.
“The Super W competition has been a great achievement for us, finishing at the top of the table but when you get into the semi-finals, it’s a whole new reset for everyone. It’s all bets are off,” McDonald said.
McDonald said the 13-week campaign had laid a strong foundation, with a balanced squad made up of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent.
She credited the coaching staff for building a competitive environment that has brought the best out of the players.
McDonald said the team’s message heading into the semi-final was simple – return to the basics and remain focused on the goal.
“The girls are more tenacious now and more competitive. They know what’s ahead of them and they want another photo on that wall,” she said.
While the Drua defeated the Reds 50-17 in Brisbane during the regular season, McDonald expects a much tougher contest, particularly with Queensland Reds strengthened by the return of several key players.
“The Reds have earned their place in the semi-final. They’ve got nothing to lose, and we know they’ll be a different team.”
The Drua Women’s ambitions extend beyond reclaiming the Super W title they last won in 2023.
McDonald said the ultimate objective from the start of the season was to win both the Super W championship and the Super Rugby Trans-Tasman Final against New Zealand’s champions – a feat no Fijian women’s side has achieved.
“There is a lot of history to be made. It’s all or nothing now.”
She also praised the players’ commitment throughout the season, saying the squad had remained united despite injuries and had fully embraced the team’s goals.
