In a thrilling encounter, the Fijian Drua secured a last-minute victory over the Queensland Reds, winning 36-33 in Suva. Isikeli Rabitu, coming off the bench, scored with just 52 seconds remaining, stunning the Reds in their pursuit of a long-awaited win in Fiji. Despite leading the match, the Reds found themselves down to 14 men after flanker Fraser McReight received a yellow card in the closing moments.
The Reds seemed set to clinch the victory when Seru Uru made a crucial turnover near his own try line. However, the momentum shifted dramatically when he lost possession shortly after. Rabitu’s decisive try came after the Drua regained control following a hopeful kick from winger Taniela Rakuro.
Fullback Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula converted the try, sealing a dramatic three-point win that ignited celebrations at the packed HFC Stadium. This victory marked only the Drua’s third win of the season and their second consecutive home win against Australian teams, having previously triumphed over the Waratahs in April.
Reds captain Tate McDermott expressed mixed feelings after the match, acknowledging his team’s determination yet lamenting their defensive lapses. He commented on the physical style of the Drua and the importance of learning from this match, noting, “We let them score too easily… If you give them that much time and space, they’re going to make you pay.” Despite the disappointment, he emphasised the value of their bonus point and turned focus towards upcoming matches.
This last-minute drama has kept the Drua’s slim hopes for a Super Rugby Pacific playoff spot alive. While they remain at the bottom of the table, they have narrowed the gap to the sixth position to just seven points. The Reds currently sit fourth with 28 points, assured that they won’t be overtaken this weekend.
Next week, the Drua will host the Blues in a must-win fixture at home, while the Reds prepare to face the Waratahs in Sydney on the same night, as both teams aim to capitalise on their recent performances.