Far from over, says captain

McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women’s captain Bitila Tawake says, consistency will be key as they prepare for Saturday’s Super W clash against Queensland Reds in Brisbane, Australia.

Tawake said there are key areas the team need to improve on despite their 42-25 win over the ACT Brumbies at Govind Park in Ba last Saturday. The two teams were locked at 20-20 at halftime.

A win over the Reds will secure Drua a home semi-final clash in Lautoka the following weekend.

“When we are a bit content with the scoreboard, we tend to forget about our defence,” Tawake said.

“So just having that consistency in both our set pieces on attack and defence is really key.

“That’s a key takeaway from the Brumbies’ game— not always staying content or in our comfort zone and always getting out of that.”

She said the side had a strong first half against the Brumbies.

“Honestly, we had a good start. I’m really happy with the first half. We maintained it and we played 80 minutes of rugby.

“We got the win, but it’s not over yet.

“We have the Reds next in Brisbane and our away games are always tough. But from our last game, we’re happy. It doesn’t stop there. We keep moving forward and the aim is to get into another grand finale.”

The Drua also acknowledged its most capped player and leading try scorer utility forward Karalaini Naisewa.

With 28 appearances and 10 tries in Drua colours, Naisewa continues to set the standard. She started her career as blindside flanker before being moved to No.8, hooker and now prop.

Her 25th appearance for the club came in last season’s semi-final — another milestone in an outstanding Drua journey.