The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua goes into the opening round of the 2023 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition against Moana Pasifika on a high note after recording their second trial match victory against the Western Force in Brisbane, Australia on Thursday.
The Fijian Drua defeated the Force 48-38. In the first trial match at Prince Charles Park in Nadi, the Drua beat Melbourne Rebels 24-0.
The Drua will face Moana Pasifika in New Zealand next Saturday.
Fijian Drua head coach Mick Byrne said the results of the trial matches showed that their preseason training went well.
Byrne said they were focusing on what they were all trying to do.
He said they got things right against the Force.
“I think we played well because we stuck to the task,” Byrne said.
“This time last year we were pretty much loose around our possession. I think we were much better in this match.
“It was pleasing to see us go through the processes that we were looking for.
“It is a difficult thing for the boys to come out at night for a practice game away from home. But they were focused on the job and it was pleasing that they did that against a quality team so it was good learning for us.”
Byrne said all the players did their job against the Force.
He said most of the players stuck to their roles well and that is what the coaching staff was looking for.
“Our expectation was that they tweak and get their jobs done and play their individual roles,” Byrne said.
“The boys need to prepare well next week.
“My biggest expectation from the boys is that they get their preparations done and prepare themselves for the opening round match against Moana Pasifika.”
The Fijian Drua led the Force 29-14 at half-time with tries from Frank Lomani, Ilaisa Droasese, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre while the Force crossed the line twice.
In the second spell, the Fijian Drua led 41-24 with 12 minutes to go when the hosts staged a brave fightback to trail 41-38 with two minutes remaining.
However, the Tevita Ikanivere-captained side sealed the win with a try to prop Kaliopasi Uluilakepa who got a brace in the fixture.
