It was a day to remember for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and the Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua franchises as registered wins in front of home fans for the very first time in Suva yesterday.
And they did not only host but both teams managed good wins against the Melbourne Rebels teams.
The Fijiana Drua set the pace with a convincing 39-12 win over the Melbourne Rebels in the Super Rugby W while the Fijian Drua side beat the Melbourne Rebels 38-28.
The home fans went home delighted and overwhelmed with the results.
Fijian Drua captain Meli Derenalagi said his team was aware of the struggles the fans were facing.
“We know some fans sacrificed their Sunday meal money to come and watch us today (yesterday). We thank these fans and I am just happy that the boys were able to get the win and put smiles on the faces of these fans,” Derenalagi said.
He also wished the children around the country a cheerful Palm Sunday today.
“To the children around the country, wish you a very happy Palm Sunday. Never give up on your dreams and keep working hard and do not forget to praise God for what he has done in your lives.”
Melbourne Rebels coach Kevin Foote said while they has come prepared to face the Fijian Drua, playing in Fiji was not easy.
“The fans, the music, the atmosphere is totally different. Our team slowly adjusted in the second spell but the damage was already done in the first,” Foote said.
“We played well against the Reds last week and we just could not match up to that performance this week. I must say the Fijian Drua played well today but hats off to my team as well for a gallant performance in this atmosphere.”
Fijiana Drua coach Inoke Male said he was impressed with his side’s 39-12 win, but still believed they could have done better.
Rebels women’s coach Jason Rogers gave credit to the Fijiana side for their hard-working forwards and defensive lines against his side.
The Drua have a bye next weekend and will be up against the traditional champions of Australia, the Brumbies in two weeks-time.
The Fijian Drua play the Brumbies away from home on April 14 at 9.35pm.
The Fijiana Drua will be in action next week as they face the Waratahs Women at 5.05pm on Saturday.
