The fact that the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has already defeated the mighty Crusaders this year, gives the team confidence.
This is according to head coach Mick Byrne ahead of their Super Rugby Pacific quarter-final match.
Last season the Fijian side lost 61-3 at Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch but they enter this territory with renewed confidence after beating the defending champions in Lautoka 25-24 two months ago.
Byrne believes his men are ready to lift their physicality and live up to the intensity of the crucial match.
“We obviously know that we are going to Christchurch, they haven’t been beaten there in the final series. I’m not sure how many teams they play in the final that beat them during the year but that’s what we think, we are going to play them in the final in Christchurch and we did have success against them this year and that gives us confidence.”
Byrne has once again reiterated the importance of getting the right start and being on the front-foot will play out well for them.
Meanwhile, Fiji-born winger Timoci Tavatavanawai and his Moana Pasifika team wishes theFijian Drua the very best ahead of their Super Rugby Pacific quarterfinal match against the Crusaders on Saturday.
Tavatavanawai and Moana coach Aaron Mauger spoke in a video message for the Drua.
The big Fijian winger says the Drua are in their prayers.
“To all our Drua brothers and officials, from the Moana Pasifika team, captain and coaches we’d like to wish you all the best for your quarterfinal match, we pray that you’ll go out there and execute what you have been taught.”
Moana Pasifika coach Mauger says they’d have love to be on the field with the Drua and celebrate the historical achievement with them.
However, Mauger says they’re grateful of this moment and are happy for the Drua.
The two clash on Saturday at 7.05pm.
SOURCE: FBC SPORTS/PACNEWS
