SATURDAY, MARCH 23rd, 2024 CHURCHILL PARK,LAUTOKA, FIJI
After enduring two narrow defeats, the Waratahs find themselves facing a challenging trip to Fiji, a scenario they’d undoubtedly prefer to avoid. However, with the return of two pivotal players, Darren Coleman is optimistic that his team can navigate the humid conditions and spring a surprise victory against the Drua on their home turf.
Waratahs Look to Reverse Fortune in Fiji Amidst Lineup Changes
With Max Jorgensen’s comeback, Mark Nawaqanitawase shifts back to his preferred right-wing position, while Mahe Vailanu’s return strengthens their set-piece, essential for maintaining organization and avoiding the chaotic style of play favored by the Drua.
Drua’s Home Advantage: Can Waratahs Overcome Fiji’s Heat and Humidity?
Fresh off their historic triumph over the Crusaders in their previous home fixture, the Drua are eager to replicate that success against the Waratahs. The conditions and fervent crowd support in Lautoka make it a daunting venue for opponents, but the Waratahs can challenge if they maintain composure, adhere to a structured game plan, and push the match down to the wire.
Historical Stats: Waratahs’ Dominance vs. Drua in Super Rugby Pacific
The NSW Waratahs have won all four of their previous games against the Fijian Drua in the Super Rugby Pacific, conceding no more than 18 points in a game.
Fijian Drua’s Home Record: Churchill Park Becoming a Fortress
The Fijian Drua have won three of their last four Super Rugby Pacific games at Churchill Park including their last two in a row.
The NSW Waratahs have conceded 40+ points in five of their last seven games away from home in Super Rugby Pacific .
It’s back to Fiji for the Drua and just ask the Crusaders how much of a boost that gives the home team on the day.
In fact, over their last eight games, the Drua have won all four home matches, and lost the four times they have been the away team.
Close Encounters: Drua’s Home Wins Characterized by Tight Margins
All four of those wins have been close contests with the winning margin between 1-12 points.
While the Waratahs have taken out all four Super Rugby meetings between the teams, none have been played in the Pacific nation.
Lineup Revealed: Waratahs vs. Drua Starting XV and Reserves
Waratahs
Max Jorgensen, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Izaia Perese, Joey Walton, Dylan Pietsch, Tane Edmed, Jake Gordon, Langi Gleeson, Charlie Gamble, Ned Hanigan, Fergus Lee-Warner, Jed Holloway, Harry Johnson-Holmes, Mahe Vailanu, Angus Bell.
Reserves Julian Heaven, Hayden Thompson-Stringer, Tom Ross, Miles Amatosero, Hugh Sinclair, Lachlan Swinton, Jack Grant, Triston Reilly.
Drua
Ilaisa Droasese, Selestino Ravutaumada, Iosefo Masi, Apisalome Vota, Taniela Rakuro, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Simione Kuruvoli, Meli Derenalagi, Vilive Miramira, Etonia Waqa, Leone Rotuisolia, Mesake Vocevoce, Mesake Doge, Tevita Ikanivere, Haereiti Hetet.
Reserves. Zuriel Togiatama, Emosi Tuqiri, Samuela Tawake, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Kitione Salawa, Peni Matawalu, Kemu Valetini, Epeli Momo
PREDICTION
This could be a tight contest in Fiji, so the heat and the humidity will be a factor, which will favour the Drua. I am going with the Drua by a slight margin.
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