The Drua put on a heroic performance for the home crowd but the Highlanders were too strong.
Showing both determination and dazzling skills the Drua thrilled their home crowd in this historic match; their first in Suva in the Super Rugby competition. Cheers and shouts of joy erupted every time a Drua player touched the ball.
Despite their heroic effort, the Drua went down fighting against the Highlanders 27-24, in front of a sold-out ANZ Stadium.
The Fijian Drua performing the Na Bole before a Super Rugby Pacific clash. Photo: AAP / www.photosport.nz
The Drua made an electric start when halfback Frank Lomani scored the game's first try, after winger Vinaya Habosi smashed through the Highlanders' defensive line.
FT: Drua 24: 27 Highlanders. Now that's rugby. Entertaining, thrilling, and full of flair. Vinaka @Highlanders, vinaka Viti! #tosodrua pic.twitter.com/6k0jFpETdx
— Fijian Drua (@Fijian_Drua) April 30, 2022
Habosi followed up with a try of his own, after a line break by Joseva Tamani.
The Drua's third try came in the 22nd minute. Kitione Taliga surged past the Highlanders' defence allowing fly-half Teti Tela to kick a grubber which was recovered by centre Kalaveti Ravouvou.
A penalty just before half-time allowed Teti Tela to add three more points, via penalty kick. Teti's kicking form was excellent, converting all three tries, as well as the penalty. At half-time, Drua led the match 24-17.
In the second half, the Highlanders displayed a much tighter defence, and were awarded a penalty kick in the 49th minute to close the gap to 21-20. Drua maintained their narrow lead until a defensive error in the 61st minute allowed the Highlanders to score a converted try to take the game.
Despite the loss, fans were thrilled to have the Drua playing in their home town.
-Fiji Village
