Expect the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua team to be physical for the full 80 minutes against the Melbourne Rebels this Saturday in round six of the 2023 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
This was highlighted by Drua assistant coach Glen Jackson during an interview at the Seventh Heaven pontoon in the Mamanuca Group yesterday, where the Fijian Drua players had a “cooling-off” day.
“We got to be physical and disciplined. We did it against the Crusaders, the Moana Pasifika and also somewhat against the Highlanders and Waratahs,” Jackson said.
“Not many teams can deal with the physicality of the Drua and we just need to do that for the full 80 minutes.”
With the Rebels in hot form as they are on a three consecutive game winning streak, Jackson said the clash this Saturday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva would be a delight for rugby fans.
“They are playing really well and are moving the ball around, which suits us as well. We can hopefully get a really big crowd, a sell-out crowd in Suva.”
The former Chiefs first five-eighth heaped praises at utility backline Iosefo Masi for his impressive run in the competition.
“Masi has been brilliant. He came back from North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL into the Drua and has put his hand up for selection every time.
“Everytime he touches the ball, he is explosive and is one of the most dangerous players for us and is an asset not only us but for the Flying Fijians as well.”
When asked about the potential of Fijian Drua boys clashing against Ilikena Vudogo and Angelo Smith, two players in the Rebels squad with links to Fiji, he said it would be exciting.
“You tell me which Super Rugby team does not play Fijians as every team has got one.
“I know the Fijian boys enjoy coming back and playing here.”
Smith scored a try against the Reds last week. The match kicks off at 3.35pm.
