In a thrilling Super Rugby Pacific matchup in Lautoka, the previously winless Fijian Drua achieved a remarkable victory, overcoming the undefeated Chiefs 28-24. Winger Ponepati Loganimasi scored a crucial try in the 66th minute, sealing the game after a clever solo effort, which gave the Drua an eight-point lead with just under fifteen minutes remaining.
The first half saw the Drua struggle to make an impact but managed only a pair of penalties, falling behind 12-3 early in the game. Remarkably, they turned the tide in the second half, outscoring the Chiefs 25-5 after Meli Derenalagi’s try ignited their comeback shortly after half-time. The Chiefs, who had taken an early lead thanks to tries from Samisoni Taukei’aho and Jimmy Tupou, were unable to maintain control as the Drua unleashed their competitive spirit.
After Derenalagi’s try, the teams exchanged scores, with both sides battling the challenging conditions. Although the Chiefs briefly reclaimed the lead with Anton Lienert-Brown’s effort, the Drua quickly responded, regaining the advantage through Vuate Karawalevu’s try, followed by Loganimasi’s decisive score.
Drama continued late in the match as Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula added a penalty for the Drua, further extending their lead. A late try by Tupou Vaa’i for the Chiefs brought a semblance of hope but was not enough to alter the outcome.
This victory marks an impressive seventh consecutive win for the Drua at their Lautoka Park home, although they will not play there again until mid-April. The next fixture for the Drua will be against the Brumbies, while the Chiefs prepare to face off against the Blues in their upcoming match.
In summary, the Fijian Drua’s spirited second-half performance not only secured their first win of the season but also saw them rallying from a difficult start to achieve a stunning victory that highlights their resilience and determination in the Super Rugby Pacific.