Drua call for ‘extra man’; Thorburn urges fans to support boys against Chiefs

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Brian Thorburn. Picture: FT FILE

The interim chief executive officer of the Fijian Drua has called on local rugby supporters to become an “extra man” when the Drua conclude their maiden voyage in unchartered waters with a date against the high-flying and Clayton McMillan-coached Chiefs of Waikato, New Zealand on Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.

Brian Thorburn said the show of support from the fans was what the newest franchise needed for their final match of the season in a revamped 12-team competition against fellow Fijian Pita Gus Sowakula’s Chiefs.

“The key focus for us is that we want as many Fijian fans to support the team when they run out at Churchill Park on Saturday,” he said.

“We want to ensure that there is an enormous support that exists for the Fijian brand of rugby.

“The Fijian fans should come out in numbers and watch the Drua “live” in action.

“I think on the field Mick and the coaching group with Nemani and the playing group are working hard in preparation for the team’s last match.

“They’re very focussed on optimal preparations against a team laden with New Zealand All Blacks players.

“The boys are working very hard.

“We’re really looking forward to having as many Fijian fans flocked to the game on match day.

“Come out and be vocal; make a lot of noise and support the boys.

“Most importantly, please purchase your tickets early to avoid disappointment of missing out on watching your favourite team in action.

“Buy your merchandise from Jack’s of Fiji or Tappoo City in Lautoka before you get to the ground.

“Let’s paint the Sugar City blue on Saturday!”

The Fijian Drua arrived in the country last Saturday evening after being walloped 3-61 by Crusaders in Christchurch, New Zealand and are preparing from their camp at Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi under the watchful eyes of head coach Mick Byrne, who was a former All Blacks and Wallabies skills coach for their final regular season match.

The Drua lies in 11th position on the points standing with 11 points ahead of fellow new franchise Moana Pasifika, which has amassed a mere six points in a 12-team remodelled 2022 Super Rugby Pacific competition.

The match kicks off at 3pm.

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