Lautoka, Fiji – In a dramatic Super Rugby Pacific clash on March 8, 2025, the Fijian Drua delivered a stunning 28-24 victory over the previously unbeaten Waikato Chiefs at Churchill Park, Lautoka. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd and under heavy rain, the Drua showcased resilience and flair to claim their first win of the season.
First Half: Chiefs Dominate Early
The Waikato Chiefs came into the match as strong favourites, boasting an unbeaten record this season. They quickly asserted their dominance, opening the scoring in just the third minute. Hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho capitalised on a well-structured lineout drive to crash over the try line, giving the visitors an early 5-0 lead.
Despite the challenging wet conditions, the Chiefs continued to apply pressure, with No.8 Jimmy Tupou extending their lead in the 27th minute. His powerful close-range finish pushed the Chiefs to a 12-6 advantage at halftime, as the Drua relied on the boot of Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, who slotted two penalty goals to keep his team within striking distance.
Second Half: Drua Fight Back with Fijian Flair
The Drua emerged from the break with renewed energy, and just two minutes into the second half, their captain Meli Derenalagi burst through the Chiefs’ defensive line to score under the posts. Armstrong-Ravula added the conversion, giving the hosts a 13-12 lead and igniting the Lautoka crowd.
However, the Chiefs responded almost immediately. Anton Lienert-Brown finished off a brilliant attacking move sparked by a tactical kick from winger Leroy Carter, restoring the visitors’ lead at 17-13.
Drua’s Explosive Finish Secures Victory
With momentum shifting, the Drua dug deep and played to their strengths—fast-paced, unpredictable rugby. In the 65th minute, fullback Vuate Karawalevu finished off a sweeping backline move to score, putting the Drua ahead once again at 18-17. Moments later, Ponipate Loganimasi electrified the crowd with a stunning individual effort. The winger intercepted a Chiefs’ kick, stepped past multiple defenders, and sprinted half the length of the field to score under the posts. Armstrong-Ravula added the conversion, extending the Drua’s lead to 25-17.
The Chiefs mounted a desperate comeback, and Tupou Vaa’i powered his way over the line in the final minutes, closing the gap to 28-24. However, the Drua’s defence held firm, sealing a famous victory at Churchill Park.
Drua’s Home Fortress and Implications for the Season
This victory reaffirmed the Drua’s reputation as a formidable force at home, particularly at Churchill Park, where they have previously toppled top-tier teams. It also ended the Chiefs’ unbeaten run, shaking up the Super Rugby Pacific standings.
Speaking after the match, Drua coach Mick Byrne praised his team’s resilience:
“The conditions were tough, but the boys showed heart and belief. We knew the Chiefs were dangerous, but we stuck to our plan and made the most of our chances.”
Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan acknowledged the Drua’s strong performance:
“We had our chances, but credit to the Drua. They thrive in these conditions, and they made us pay for our mistakes.”
What’s Next?
The Drua will look to carry this momentum into their next match as they travel to face the ACT Brumbies, while the Chiefs will aim to bounce back against the NSW Waratahs. With this victory, the Drua have sent a strong message to the rest of the competition—they are not to be underestimated, especially on home soil.
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