The Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua Women clinched a dramatic last-minute victory over the ACT Brumbies, winning 21-15 in Round 3 of the Super W competition at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The match began with both sides struggling to maintain control of the ball in wet and slippery conditions.
The Brumbies took the lead early, scoring the first try of the game and holding a narrow 5-0 advantage at half-time.
The Drua responded in the second half through captain Vika Matarugu, who powered over the line in the 44th minute to hand her side a 7-5 lead.
However, Brumbies flanker Siokopesi Palu struck back, scoring her second try to put the visitors ahead 12-7 after a successful conversion.
Discipline became an issue for the Drua, as Loraini Senivutu and Nunia Daunimoala were both shown yellow cards for dangerous tackles.
Despite being down to 13 players at one stage, the Drua remained resilient.
Winger Vitalina Naikore showcased her pace, slicing through the Brumbies’ defence to score a crucial try, reducing the deficit to 14-15.
As the Brumbies failed to capitalise on their possession, the Drua mounted one final attack in the dying moments of the match.
With the clock ticking past 80 minutes, prop Salanieta Nabuli crashed over the try line, sealing the victory.
Fly-half Luisa Tisolo then converted, securing a 21-15 win for the defending champions.
The win comes after the Drua suffered a tough loss to the Queensland Reds in a previous match.
Head coach Ifereimi Rawaqa commended his team’s determination, highlighting their ability to fight back despite their setbacks.
“We stuck in there until the last minute. There were moments of ill-discipline, but we take it. We need to keep the ball and make sure we don’t lose it, which nearly cost us,” said Rawaqa.
The Fijiana Drua will now shift their focus to their next clash against the Western Force, set to take place on 23 March at the HBF Park in Perth at 8:50pm.
