In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Fijian Drua rule on home turf
2. RUGBY — Blues shrug off early struggles for dominant Moana Pasifika win
3. RUGBY — PNG PM defends Hunt approach
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — NRL debate targets benefits after Luai’s Chiefs 001
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tigers lock in May brothers after Luai’s Chiefs move
6. BOXING — The chief in the corner: David Tua legacy grows with another Hall of Fame induction in U.S
7. FOOTBALL — 32nd OFC Ordinary Congress commences in Vancouver
8. FOOTBALL — OFC U-15 Girl’s Youth Development Tournament 2026 is setting foundations for the future
9. FOOTBALL — Using Football to Build Disaster Preparedness
10. RUGBY — Reds target top three finish after adding to Brumbies’ woes
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI TIMES/FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
Fijian Drua rule on home turf
BA, 04 MAY 2026 (FIJI TIMES/FBC SPORTS) —Fijian Drua co-captain Temo Mayanavanua has praised his side’s effort and the unwavering support from fans following their 24-14 win over the Highlanders in their Round 12 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash at 4R Stadium, Govind Park in Ba.
Mayanavanua said the victory was built on hard work and unity from the team.
“First of all, I just want to thank the boys for their effort out there. It wasn’t easy, but everyone stepped up and did their job,” he said.
He also acknowledged the backing from supporters.
“Big vinaka vakalevu to all our fans for your prayers and fasting for the team. We really felt your support.”
Mayanavanua also credited the Highlanders for a competitive encounter.
“Credit to the Highlanders as well, they gave us a really good game.”
It was a tightly contested and physical first half, with both sides showing structure and intent. The Drua struck first in the 10th minute after an intercept by Tuidraki Samusamuvodre allowed Virimi Vakatawa to cross over, with Izaiah Ravula converting.
The Highlanders responded through winger Jonah Lowe, with Cameron Millar adding the extras. Drua regained the lead when Isikeli Rabitu broke through for their second try, although the conversion was missed.
However, the visitors edged ahead before the break, with forward Veveni Lasaqa crashing over and Millar converting to give the Highlanders a 14-12 halftime lead
Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has praised the tireless work of Elia Canakaivata and Issak Fines-Leleiwasa following their standout performances in yesterday’s historic 24-14 win against the Highlanders in Ba.
Jackson says the pair set the tone with their willingness to put their bodies on the line when it mattered most, backing up the team in key moments throughout the match.
He adds that Canakaivata’s impact, combined with Fines-Leleiwasa’s ability to go the full 80 minutes once again, made a huge difference for the side.
“Elia doesn’t say a lot normally, but he just plays with his actions. Him and Issak were phenomenal.”
Jackson also highlighted the physical effort required across the match, noting how both players continued to push through even as fresh reinforcements came on.
The Drua mentor says it is rare to see such consistency and endurance, describing their efforts as “unbelievable” and deserving of full credit.
He adds that Canakaivata earned the right to enjoy the win, while reiterating his admiration for both players, saying he “takes his hat off” to their commitment and performance.
The Drua are on a bye this week before returning for their final home game in a fortnight at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva against the NSW Waratahs…..PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
Blues shrug off early struggles for dominant Moana Pasifika win
AUCKLAND, 04 MAY 206 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—The Blues have kept in contention for a home final after a physical 45-19 victory over Moana Pasifika in the Battle of the 09.
The win was set up by a dominant period before and after the break, which saw the visitors rally from a slow start and race clear for the bonus point win.
Despite what the scoreline may suggest, Moana Pasifika were more than in the contest early and came up with a unique opening try off a set-play from the tap after several minutes camped inside the Blues 22.
Taking inspiration from the Springboks, the hosts launched a midfield lineout off a quick tap, setting up the maul for Millennium Sanerivi to power over for the opener.
It left the Blues scrambling as they were stung early by poor discipline, giving away the first five penalties of the game.
They steadied themselves through prop Marcel Renata for a 7-5 lead, but a smart use of misdirection freed Sanerivi up down the short side for a power burst and his second.
North Harbour product Kade Banks put the Blues in front on his home ground, stepping his way over the line two minutes from half-time to give them a two point lead.
Skipper Patrick Tuipulotu quickly extended the visitors’ advantage to start the second half, followed over by James Mullan as the Blues ran away with the win.
Moana Pasifika had little answer to the rise in intensity from their neighbours as Stephen Perofeta capitalised on a turnover to score to cap off his impressive night.
Showing off the embarrassment of riches at their disposal, Perofeta was replaced by Beauden Barrett, who crossed with one of his first touches of the night.
Chris Apoua got a consolation try for the hosts, his second try of his career.
In the end, it wasn’t enough to deny the Blues the bonus point, as Terrell Peita’s debut try sealed full points and kept Vern Cotter’s side in the hunt for top spot on the ladder.
They’ll face the Crusaders next Friday at the new One NZ Stadium, with a win putting them before the Hurricanes take on Moana Pasifika a day later….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
PNG PM defends Hunt approach
PORT MORESBY, 04 MAY 2026 (AAP)—PRIME Minister James Marape has defended his approach to promoting Papua New Guinea’s rugby league ambitions, saying his engagement with players is respectful, transparent and within proper processes.
“In promoting PNG whether in rugby league, foreign relations or business, I am PNG’s number one salesperson and promoter, so I have to respectfully do what’s good for my country,” Marape said.
Marape responded to Brisbane Broncos dummy-half Ben Hunt’s claims of aggressive recruitment tactics by the prime minister, describing the approach as “wheeling and dealing”.
Hunt told a Brisbane radio station that Marape attempted to “sweet-talk” players with offers of tax-free incentives and roles, also offering his club captain Adam Reynolds a coaching role with the PNG Chiefs.
However, Marape told The National that he spoke to players who came off contract and would consider joining the Chiefs setup, but stressed any discussions were subject to due process and overseen by team management.
“I talk to all players who I meet,” Marape said.
“If they come off contract and want to consider Chiefs, then this is what we offer, subject to the due processes which our team management have oversight on. I don’t overstep my country’s boundaries.”
Hunt made the comments on Wednesday after the PNG Chiefs announced Jarome Luai as player 001 as part of the expansion team’s recruitment drive.
Chiefs chief executive officer Lorna McPherson said Luai’s signing sent a strong message about the club’s ambition.
“Signing a player of Jarome’s experience and quality shows we are serious about building this club,” she said. PNG Chiefs general manager (football) Michael Chammas said the New South Wales State of Origin representative and Samoan international was “a world-class player and a proven winner”.
Marape said the Government’s tax-free incentive to NRL players and officials involved with the Chiefs, was consistent with existing tax exemptions offered to businesses keen on investing in PNG.
“This tax-free status is similar to incentives we give to pioneering or targeted segments of our businesses or communities and is not an NRL initiative, so commentaries must not blame NRL,” he said.
“The vision behind the team extends beyond rugby league, positioning it as a platform for national unity and stronger regional ties.”
Marape said he respected the club management’s role in engaging in contractual discussions with players and officials….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
NRL debate targets benefits after Luai’s Chiefs 001
PORT MORESBY, 04 MAY 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The NRL’s salary cap system is under close watch following the recent signing of Wests Tigers playmaker Jarome Luai as PNG Chiefs No.001.
What was meant to be an exciting expansion battle is now being described by insiders as a “one-sided contest”, with the Perth Bears reportedly struggling to keep up.
Bears are under pressure, with growing claims they are losing ground to the Chiefs in the race to build momentum ahead of their NRL entry next season (2027).
Reports suggest the Bears are falling behind in the public relations battle, as the Chiefs continue to gain attention, support, and traction in key areas like player recruitment and fan engagement.
It is now clear that if Perth fail to wake from hibernation, they risk slipping further behind while the Chiefs push forward with confidence.
Despite the Bears promoting a strong AUD$6 million (K14.4 million) financial backing, critics say money alone will not be enough.
NRL commentators are quietly questioning whether the system is already stacked in favour of the 19th PNG franchise.
Surrounding the critic is a major advantage: tax-free contracts.
Sources say this allows the Chiefs to offer players significantly more take-home pay even when contracts appear equal on paper.
This means – a player choosing Papua New Guinea could walk away with far more money than if they signed with an Australian side.
There is growing concern that Luai signing will trigger a chain reaction, attracting more elite players to Port Moresby before 2028.
One recruitment source described it bluntly: “Once one big name goes, others follow. That’s how the market works.”
If that happens, the Chiefs could enter the competition already stacked with star power, something no expansion team has achieved before.
Unlike the Chiefs, the Bears are operating without extra salary cap concessions, meaning they must compete under the same financial rules as established clubs but without the same appeal.
As a result, the Mal Meninga-coached side is expected to miss out on key targets as they prepare for their debut next year.
“It’s not a fair fight,” one commentator said, echoing a sentiment now widely shared across the game.
Meanwhile, the PNG Chiefs have broken their silence on how they secured Wests Tigers playmaker Jarome Luai, in what general manager Michael Chammas described as one of the biggest shocks in rugby league.
Chammas revealed that the club had been monitoring Luai’s contract situation from the outset.
“We knew he was a free agent,” Chammas said. “And I’ve known Jerome since he was a teenager.
“Forget football for a second … he ticks every single box. He’s a family man, he carries himself well, and he has strong Pacific values.”
Luai’s recent trip to Port Moresby sealed the connection.
According to Chammas, the star playmaker felt instantly at home, even likening the atmosphere to his Samoan roots.
“He was walking through the streets saying it reminded him of Samoa. He felt comfortable. That connection was real.”
While Luai’s on-field talent is unquestioned, the Chiefs were equally focused on his off-field impact.
“We already knew what he could do on the field. But off the field, he was everything we wanted.
“He’s coming with his wife and three young kids. His parents are excited too. This is not just a player signing, it’s a family journey.”
Chammas believes Luai’s decision sends a powerful message to other players considering a move to Papua New Guinea.
“If it’s good enough for Jerome, it’s good enough for anyone.”
The signing has stunned the rugby league community, and even the Chiefs themselves.
“It’s been a whirlwind,” Chammas admitted. “If you told us three months ago that Luai would be our first signing, we wouldn’t have believed it. It means everything to the people. You can see it everywhere. That’s what made this special.”
Despite outside skepticism, the PNG Chiefs are embracing the moment and the history they are creating….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
Tigers lock in May brothers after Luai’s Chiefs move
SYDNEY, 04 MAY 2026 (AAP)—Wests Tigers have received a major boost for life after Jarome Luai, securing the long-term futures of brothers Terrell May and Taylan May.
In the week Luai agreed to join the PNG Chiefs for the start of the 2028 season, the May brothers have confirmed they will remain at Concord until 2030.
Prop Terrell and centre Taylan were both free to entertain offers from the Chiefs when they entered the final 12 months of their existing deals on November 1.
The pair have both signed three-year deals,announcing their decision to stay loyal to Benji Marshall.
“We’re so happy to have Terrell and Taylan locked in with us long term,” Marshall said.
“They both bring so many things on and off the field to our club . I love who they are and what they stand for.
“What’s clear with both boys is they are ‘all in’ and committed to where we are heading as a club and are both integral parts of our team.”
Taylan’s re-signing caps an encouraging turnaround for the one-time Penrith prodigy.
He was sacked by the Panthers in 2024 over several off-field incidents and has rebuilt his career at the Tigers, while seeking professional help following a bipolar diagnosis.
Terrell, meanwhile, has been one of the NRL’s standout props since landing at the Tigers at the start of last season.
He has declared his intention to win State of Origin selection for NSW this year, arguing in an interview with AAP earlier this week he had come on leaps and bounds in the last 12 months.
“We love it here and to have our future secured at the Tigers until 2030 is something special,” Terrell said.
“Family is so important to us and it’s something that drew me to the club in the first place.
“I can’t speak highly enough of Benji and the staff for the support they give us to be ourselves on and off the field,” he said…. PACNEWS
PAC – BOXING: PMN PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
The chief in the corner: David Tua legacy grows with another Hall of Fame induction in U.S
INDIANA, 04 MAY 2026 (PMN)—David Tua’s left hook used to keep the boxing world’s best heavyweights awake at night.
At the weekend, that legendary power is being etched into history once again as the 53-year-old Sāmoan high chief joins the Indiana Boxing Hall of Fame.
The induction ceremony for the Class of 2026 recognises Tua’s massive impact on the American Midwest boxing scene during the 1990s.
He built his reputation here as a “wrecking machine” and became a household name across the United States.
While the bright lights of the ceremony in Indiana (1-3 May local time) celebrate a career that defined an era, the man known as To’aletai Faumuina David Tua is focused on a different kind of legacy back home.
This isn’t Tua’s first walk to a Hall of Fame podium. He’s already been honoured in Atlantic City, Florida, and the US National Boxing Hall of Fame.
While the Indiana induction is the latest jewel in his crown, it follows a long line of global and local honours that recognise Tua as one of the greatest heavyweights ever to lace up gloves:
*Florida Boxing Hall of Fame (2022): Inducted for a career defined by massive wins over world champions like John Ruiz and Michael Moorer.
*National Boxing Hall of Fame (2022): Tua took his place alongside the sport’s greatest legends at the induction ceremony in Los Angeles.
*NZ Boxing Hall of Fame: Cementing his status as New Zealand’s most iconic and powerful heavyweight boxer.
*Auckland Boxing Association: Honoured in the Auckland Hall of Fame for his immense contribution to the local sport where his journey first began.
*Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (2019): Appointed by the Crown for his services to boxing and the community, a testament to his impact beyond the ropes.
But for the Pacific community, this latest milestone is a reminder that Pasifika sporting icons don’t just belong to history – they belong to the future.
Instead of resting on his laurels, To’aletai is on the ground in Sāmoa, sweat on his brow, training the next generation at the Independent Boxing Sāmoa (IBS) Academy.
For a man who once fought for multi-million-dollar purses in the world’s biggest arenas, To’aletai’s return to the humble gyms of the Pacific is a masterclass in humility.
He is using his platform to ensure the next generation doesn’t have to fight the same financial and personal battles he did outside the ring.
We saw the “Tua Effect” in full swing just last month. At the Pacific Nations Cup in Fiji, Tua wasn’t watching from the stands. He was in the corner, coaching Team Boxing Sāmoa.
The result? A massive haul of 19 medals and a team that walked taller because a legend was in their ear.
His transition from a world-class fighter to a matai (chief To’aletai) has added a new layer of cultural leadership to his coaching, blending technical boxing skill with Sāmoan values of service and discipline.
Whether it was preparing youth for the World Boxing Cup in March or guiding seniors in Fiji, his presence has become the secret weapon for Sāmoan sport.
As Tavu’i Mike Lemisio, President of IBS, said in a statement: “His journey reflects the resilience, discipline, and excellence we strive to instil in our athletes today.”
A win for the region
This induction is a massive “chehoo” moment for the Pacific.
It proves that a kid from the islands can reach the absolute top of the world and, more importantly, come back to make sure others can do the same.
“This milestone is not only a personal achievement for To’aletai, but also a proud moment for Samoa and the Pacific region,” Lemisio says. “His continued contribution to the development of our athletes further strengthens his legacy beyond the ring.”
As the boxing world tips its hat to one of the hardest hitters to ever lace up a pair of gloves, the Pacific celebrates a chief who is still fighting for his people – one training session at a time….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
32nd OFC Ordinary Congress commences in Vancouver
VANCOUVER, 04 MAY 2026 (OFC)—The 32nd Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Ordinary Congress has taken place in Vancouver, Canada ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress held at the same location.
Representatives from all eleven OFC Member Associations gathered in North America to discuss the development of football in the Oceania region, reviewing the financial audit and activities from 2025 and the approval of the budget for 2027.
An address by FIFA President Gianni Infantino opened proceedings, followed by words from OFC President Lambert Maltock, with the FIFA President acknowledging the growth in the region.
“Oceania may be the smallest confederation in population, but certainly is one of the biggest in size, and clearly, with the biggest heart,” Infantino said.
“To organise competitions from the youth level – girls, boys, men’s and women’s, not only on the social side but the professional side with the launch of the Professional league, is a game changer for football in Oceania.”
The FIFA President also paid tribute to the continued collaboration between the world’s governing body and OFC, pledging to continue FIFA support to the fast-growing Confederation.
“Together we are not just uniting Oceania and the world, but together we will achieve fantastic success stories that the world will be proud of,” he said.
“Of course, there is much more to do, and what we can do together, but with the base of what OFC have built and the commitment to Oceania football, I can just encourage you to continue this path and assure you that you can count on my full support.”
OFC President Lambert Maltock also saluted the hard work and dedication of the Confederation, that brought to life a brand new professional tournament to the region in the shape of the inaugural OFC Pro League.
“I am immensely proud of the strides we have taken to strengthen football across Oceania,” the OFC President commented.
“This year was defined by ambition, collaboration, and a shared commitment to elevating our game.”
“Our journey toward long-term sustainability and high performance has gained real momentum, and this year stands as a testament to the resilience and vision of our football community.”
The 2026 OFC Activity Report was presented to highlight the activities across the region and achievements made, including the historic launch of the exciting OFC Pro League.
The launch of the league has been a gamechanger for Oceania, and is likely to be a catalyst for transformation, creating professional pathways for our players, coaches, referees, and administrators, and strengthening the entire football ecosystem across all Member Associations.
“The OFC Professional League is more than a competition,” President Maltock said. “It is the missing piece in our football ecosystem. It creates opportunity, raises standards, and provides a genuine professional pathway within our region.
“Already, we are seeing its impact. Clubs are stepping forward with greater ambition. Standards are lifting—on and off the field. And importantly, we are beginning to bridge the gap across our region, giving more players access to a higher level of football.””
The Auditors Report for 2025 revealing OFC’s finances was also presented and approved, before the new Strategic Plan and 2027 Annual Budget was revealed to representatives.
The 32nd Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Ordinary Congress concluded with further remarks from OFC President Lambert Maltock, setting the scene for what is sure to be a bright and prosperous 2027 for the Confederation.
“Long-term sustainability for football in Oceania means building a game that is not only competitive but deeply rooted in our communities,” President Maltock said.
“It means creating clear and professional pathways—for players, coaches, referees, and administrators. And it means bridging the gap between our smallest Member Associations and our more advanced ones, ensuring that we grow together as one region.
“We must now build on the momentum of the OFC Professional League—strengthening its foundations, growing its impact, and ensuring it delivers long-term value for our region.
“We will continue to raise standards in governance and professionalism. We will deepen our investment in development and education, and we will continue to unite our region through football,” he said.”…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
OFC U-15 Girl’s Youth Development Tournament 2026 is setting foundations for the future
LAUTOKA, 04 MAY 2026 (OFC)—The stage is set for the OFC U-15 Girls Youth Development Tournament 2026, as eight nations from across Oceania prepare to converge on Churchill Park in Fiji from 4–12 May.
Hosted in Lautoka, the tournament will see teams split into two groups, with Samoa, Tonga, Solomon Islands and Tahiti drawn in Group A, while New Zealand, New Caledonia, Fiji and Cook Islands make up Group B.
Now in its third year, the OFC U-15 Development Tournament continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of football across the region. Delivered in collaboration with UEFA through the UEFA Together programme, the initiative focuses on providing a safe, supportive environment where young players, coaches, referees and administrators can experience the demands of international football.
This tournament represents the first taste of international competition and even international travel for many participants. In Oceania, players often make their debut on the global stage at the U-16 level, with FIFA Women’s World Cup™ qualification pathways already on the line. The OFC U-15 Development Tournament helps bridge that gap, equipping young athletes with the tools and experience needed before stepping into higher stake environments without the pressure of focussing on the results of the game.
Each match will consist of three 25-minute thirds, with a 7-minute interval between each period. If the scores are level at the end of normal time, no extra time will be played. At the end of each match, a penalty shootout will take place regardless of the score. Each team will take five penalty kicks, with a sudden death format used if the scores remain equal.
Off the pitch, there is also a focus on development of players and staff. Education sessions will be led by strength and conditioning coach Maha Shankar, focusing on key topics such as physical preparation, recovery, and the relationship between menstruation and performance, offering players valuable insight into caring for their bodies both on and off the field.
Adding further inspiration, two Football Ferns will attend as ambassadors. Kelli Brown, currently playing for Perth Glory, and Anna Leat of Newcastle Jets, will spend time with each team, sharing their journeys and offering a glimpse into the opportunities football can provide.
Their presence builds on previous editions, where experienced players such as former New Zealand international Kirsty Yallop, alongside current Football Ferns, Grace Jale and Mackenzie Barry, engaged with players as tournament ambassadors. The impact of these role models helps young players visualise pathways in football both on and off the pitch.
Not only is this a development tournament for players, it’s also an opportunity for young referees to have their first experience of officiating international matches to prepare them for further OFC competitions. A referee observer will also be appointed to supervise the match officials and conduct post-match analysis meetings to help their development.
While matches will be played and skills tested, the true success of the tournament lies in development. This provides opportunities where players are experiencing tournament structures and travel, as well as giving coaches and referees the opportunity to grow in an international setting….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
Using Football to Build Disaster Preparedness
HONIARA, 04 MAY 2026 (OFC)—Across the Pacific, participating member associations are using the power of football to educate communities about natural disasters, with a strong focus on safeguarding practices that protect and support children.
Earlier this month, primary school participants were selected to take part in a three-day training programme hosted by participating member associations. The initiative focused on equipping teachers with the skills to become coaches within their schools, enabling them to better prepare students for natural disasters—an ever-present threat in the Pacific Islands, where cyclones, flooding, and tsunamis are common.
By delivering education through play, important safety messages are shared in a way that is engaging, practical, and easy for children to understand. The course provided an in-depth exploration of the types of natural disasters likely to affect each country, alongside hands-on activities and practical sessions.
Participants learned how to:
*Identify designated safe zones for different disaster scenarios
*Respond effectively during emergencies
* Reinforce preparedness through interactive drills and simulations
“An Emergency Preparedness plan on the shelf is not enough, it needs to be a living document that teachers, staff, and students know by heart through consistent drills and simulations, and in our case through the Just Play sessions,” said Maria Rufina, Social Responsibility Manager, Solomon Islands Football Federation
The true value of the training is seen when teachers can calmly and confidently guide their students to safety. This level of preparedness comes from repeated practice, where responses become second nature.
As a result, the programme has helped increase teachers’ confidence in protecting their students and strengthened the development of school evacuation procedures.
“It’s not just important, it is a matter of survival. Our region is on the front line of climate change, and Oceania is one of the most disaster-prone areas on earth.” Maria Rufina.
Educating member associations in disaster preparedness is critical, particularly in countries like Samoa, where low-lying coastal areas are highly vulnerable to severe flooding and tsunamis.
In Samoa, the team at Samoa Football Federation delivered activities designed to address common challenges faced in school environments, while encouraging discussion around practical solutions.
“Community resilience is key. Our football children often act as agents of change by sharing what they learn from their teachers with their families, helping communities better prepare for natural disasters.”
Pele Taei, Social Responsibility and Just Play Manager, Samoa Football Federation
Through this ripple effect, is passed on from the classroom and into homes and communities, strengthening overall disaster readiness.
“Just Play is using football to deliver social messages in a way that is engaging and relatable for children. The messages are integrated directly into Just Play football sessions for the Emergency Preparedness curriculum.”
With the support of team members Laumata Lafoga, Just Play Coordinator, and Filipez Ikenasiol, Data Entry Officer, the programme continues to expand its reach helping to create safer, more prepared school environments across the nation.
AUST – RUGBY: AFP PACNEWS: Mon 04 May 2026
Reds target top three finish after adding to Brumbies’ woes
BRISBANE, 04 MAY 2026 (AFP)—Queensland Reds number eight and Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson is urging his in-form team to push for a home Super Rugby play-off match, improving their chance of avoiding another early exit in the finals.
The Reds climbed from sixth to fourth with a 30-21 home win over the ACT Brumbies on Saturday night, a third successive defeat for the struggling Canberra side, who drop to sixth.
Both teams scored three converted tries in greasy conditions but three Reds penalty goals proved the difference, including a successful late shot from Ben Volavola that made the outcome safe.
Trailing 20-7 early in the second half, the Brumbies went ahead through close-range tries to Rob Valetini and David Feliuai, before the home side responded with a try to Seru Uru.
Still a month out from the play-offs, Wilson said the Reds want to avoid the pattern of the last four seasons.
On each occasion they’ve finished in a lowly qualifying spot and been eliminated immediately in a finals match away from Brisbane.
Wilson, the Wallabies captain, said the Reds’ sixth win of the season has boosted their hopes of qualifying in the top three for the six-team finals.
“Ultimately we’d love to try and get in the top three. You’d love to have a home quarter final,” he told Stan Sport.
“This year we’ve been up and down, but we’ve probably had three consistent performances in a row here and it’s a challenge to do it for the next, I guess, four weeks.”
Backrower Wilson had praise for two fellow-Wallabies forwards — Fraser McReight and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto — for their impact against the Brumbies.
He said flanker McReight was “one of the best sevens in the world” after pulling off several ruck turnovers, while lock Salakaia-Loto had become the “leader of our pack” with his physicality.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham admitted three straight losses were “unusual circumstances” for a team who have been Australia’s strongest in recent seasons.
“We just couldn’t close the game out again and we’ve seen it all year with Super Rugby, the games are coming down to the wire and you’ve got to be good in the last stretch,” Larkham told reporters.
“It was a better performance from from our guys compared to the last two weeks I feel. But it’s very disappointing to come up short again,” he said..PACNEWS
