THE Queensland Reds will be under pressure to break their winless record in Fiji when they meet the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua this Saturday.
Playing in front of a passionate home crowd has become a major advantage for the Drua, with the side growing in confidence each season.
Head coach Glen Jackson said the team was building strong depth, with players pushing for selection across the squad.
Jackson said competition within the squad was lifting standards.
“We’ve got some good young guys that want to bring impact,” he said.
Jackson believes the growth of the squad is evident, with players now showing confidence to compete at a higher level.
“I’m liking the fact that these guys now, if you were to pick another team, they’d put their hand up.”
While the Drua continue to dominate at home, Jackson admitted the next challenge would be producing the same performances away from Fiji.
With confidence high and depth improving, the Drua will be looking to maintain their strong home form and extend the Reds’ struggles on Fijian soil.
Meanwhile Epeli Momo and Joe Tamani are out with hamstring injuries, Kavaia Tagivetaua is nursing an ankle injury and Temo Mayanavanua remains sidelined with a knee injury.
“So pretty good, really, considering how hard this competition is. Our injury ward is not massive, so congratulations to the physio department, doing a great job. And fingers crossed that we continue with limited injuries.”
