The Brumbies and the Fijian Drua recently faced off in a thrilling rugby match, which ended in a 24-17 victory for the Brumbies. This match marked the first time the Fijian Drua had played in the Australian Super Rugby competition, and they put up an impressive performance against the seasoned Brumbies.
The match was played in front of a packed crowd in Canberra, with both teams displaying their unique styles of play. The Brumbies, known for their strong defense, held off the Fijian Drua in the first half, scoring two tries of their own. However, the Fijian Drua fought back in the second half, with their fast-paced attacking style of play, scoring two tries to close the gap.
In the end, it was the Brumbies' experience and composure that saw them through, securing the win and denying the Fijian Drua a dream start to their Super Rugby campaign.
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Brumbies vs Fijian Drua,
Friday, 14th April 5:35 AM ET
Stephen Larkham has named Darcy Swain in the starting side for the first time this season alongside a rookie Super Rugby lock.
Swain will partner Warringah Rats lock Sam Thomson in the second row. The 29-year-old from Scotland was an unused substitute against the Waratahs in round six.
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Tighthead prop Allan Alaalatoa will captain the side for the 42nd time against the Drua, forming an all-international front row with James Slipper and Lachlan Lonergan. Rob Valetini, Rory Scott and Pete Samu form a familiar looking backrow, the trio having started five games together this season so far.
Ryan Lonergan rotates into the starting nine jersey to partner Noah Lolesio in the halves for the first time this year, with Ollie Sapsford coming into the midfield in-place of Tamati Tua to combine with Len Ikitau. Ben O’Donnell comes onto the left wing with Corey Toole ruled out, alongside Andy Muirhead on the right flank and Tom Wright at fullback.
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Billy Pollard will look to build on his cameo against the Reds at Suncorp Stadium last time out with Blake Schoupp and Rhys Van Nek providing plenty of go-forward as the finishing props. Nick Frost will cover the second row with Luke Reimer coming on at flanker. Nic White and Jack Debreczeni are the finishing halves pairing with Wests fullback Declan Meredith looking to make his first appearance at GIO Stadium as the spark in the backline.
“It’s critical we finish this block of the season well and we’re aware the Drua pose a unique threat in this competition so we’ve gone with as strong a lineup as we could put out for Friday night,” said Larkham.“Our locks have put in some really big minutes over the first seven rounds so we had to freshen them up but we won’t lose anything with Darcy coming and we’ve got full confidence in Sam to execute his role for us.”
The Drua have selected Flying Fijians prop Haereiti Hetet to the matchday squad for the first time this season, following a successful rehabilitation from injury.
Brumbies (1-15): James Slipper, Lachlan Lonergan, Allan Alaalatoa, Darcy Swain, Sam Thomson, Rob Valetini, Rory Scott, Pete Samu, Ryan Lonergan, Noah Lolesio, Ben O’Donnell, Ollie Sapsford, Len Ikitau, Andy Muirhead, Tom Wright.
Replacements: Billy Pollard, Blake Schoupp, Rhys Van Nek, Nick Frost, Luke Reimer, Nic White, Jack Debreczeni, Declan Meredith.
Drua (1-15): Livai Natave, Zuriel Togiatama, Samuela Tawake, Isoa Nasilasila, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Joseva Tamani, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Peni Matawalu, Teti Tela, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Iosefo Masi, Eroni Sau, Kitione Taliga.
Replacements: Mesulame Dolokoto, Haereiti Hetet, Jone Koroiduadua, Leone Rotuisolia, Rusiate Nasove, Philip Baselala, Michael Naitokani, Ilaisa Droasese.
This match highlighted the immense talent of Fijian rugby players, known for their flair and attacking prowess. It also demonstrated the importance of having a diverse range of teams in the Super Rugby competition, providing opportunities for players from different countries and backgrounds to showcase their skills.
Overall, the Brumbies vs Fijian Drua match was a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the best of Australian and Fijian rugby. It was a great start to the Fijian Drua's Super Rugby campaign, and fans will no doubt be eagerly anticipating their next match.