Mayanavanua demands strong comeback

The Temo Mayanavanua-captained Swire Shipping Fijian Drua side has shifted focus to Friday’s clash against the New South Wales Waratahs at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.

The move comes after their 40–26 loss to Moana Pasifika at Churchill Park in Lautoka on Saturday in their Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific opener.

The Flying Fijian lock admitted that the side cannot continue to play that way in round two.

“There are areas where we could have taken control of the game,” Mayanavanua said.

“But right now, we didn’t get the result we wanted. We’ll review this game, build on the positives, and prepare for a six-day turnaround.

“I learned from this game that we need to start strong. We can’t depend on one try.”

He said ill-discipline and errors allowed Moana Pasifika to capitalise.

“Our message was about the first 20 minutes. If we controlled our discipline, we could keep them out of the game. But that wasn’t the case. We’ll work on that and build.

“We need to get into the right areas of the field. When our forwards carry with momentum, it puts us in good positions.”

Mayanavanua praised the impact off the bench.

“Frank Lomani, Isoa Tuwai were exceptional. Penaia Cakobau, Samu Tawake, and Big Joe brought huge energy. They helped us get into the right areas and execute.”

The Drua face the Waratahs on Friday.