The triumphant Fiji Airways Fijian Drua rugby reps returned home last night beaming with confidence that they can beat NSW Country Eagles at 3 pm at the ANZ Sta­dium in Suva on Saturday.

A win will boost their chances of a home semifinal in the 2018 Australian National Rugby Championship.

Drua head coach Senirusi Seruvakula said after four rounds of tough competition, he now had the players who could come in as re­placements and be able to lift the momentum to another notch.

Members of the Fiji Airways Drua team with fans at the Nadi International Airport. Photo: Waisea Nasokia

“The only injured player is prop Mosese Du­civaki, who is still in Australia undergoing surgery, but I’ve capable props who are ready to step in,” he said.

They are Flying Fijians prop Joeli Veitay­aki, Eroni Mawi and newcomer Luke Tagi.

Seruvakula said they would be leaving no stones unturned when they face NSW Coun­try Eagles.

“We’re not underestimating them and we will try to avoid playing catch-up rugby.  Also, we need to keep our discipline because this time it’s very important to win these home games and then to have a home semi-final.”

Meanwhile, elusive first five-eighth Jone Manu is hoping to get more game time.

The Oinafa, Rotuma, native made his debut against the Sydney Rays.

He was moved to second five-eighth and was instrumental in setting up two late tries to Alivereti Veitokani and Apisalome Waqata­bu as the Drua team’s came from behind to snatch a 34-31 victory.

“It was a grand game for us, we came from behind to pull the win that mattered. It was good for me especially on Drua debut since I had been trying hard to make the team for some time now.”

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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