We'll be keeping a close eye on the Skipper Cup, says new Drua head coach

Newly appointed Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Brad Mooar did not waste any time as he was at Churchill Park, last Saturday, to watch the opening round of the Skipper Cup clash between Lautoka and Nadroga.

The former All Blacks and Crusaders assistant coach said he would be keeping a close eye on the Skipper Cup competition to identify the franchise club’s next generation of players.

Speaking to SUNsports, Mooar said for our provincial players the pathway to play for the Drua is through their participation in the Skipper Cup.

“It was great to be part of the day, to see our home teams in action and to watch local players represent their teams,” he said.

Mooar encouraged players in the Skipper Cup and secondary schools’ competitions to make the most of their opportunities.

“My message is to go well, good luck, enjoy yourselves and have fun,” he said.

“We’re watching, and we’re inspired by what we see. We’re looking for the next Drua player.

“There’s a pathway here, and there’s a jersey with your name on it if you’re pre-pared to put your hand up and perform.”

The Drua head coach also thanked supporters as preparations for next year’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign is now underway.

“We’re thrilled to be here,” he said.

“Thank you for the opportunity, thank you for supporting our team and loving the game. We can’t wait to get to work and look forward to meeting everyone

Mooar said he wanted the Fijian Drua to be recognised for their connection to the people of Fiji as much as their performances on the field.

“Our identity will be a connected, caring group of people who are proud to wear jerseys,” he said.

“We are an extension of our community. We’re connected to our families, our schools, our villages and the people of Fiji.”

On the field, Mooar said the team would

embrace the traditional Fijian style of rugby while placing equal importance on the less glamorous aspects of the game. “We’ll embrace the DNA of the Drua and the DNA of Fijian rugby, but we’ll also have a rock-hard work ethic,” he said.

“The set piece, defence and the work that no one sees will be things we celebrate.”

Asked how he hoped fans would describe the team at the end of the 2027 season, Mooar said he wanted supporters to be proud.

“I hope they say it’s been awesome to come to Drua games, that they’ve loved every moment of watching us play, that they’re proud of the team and excited for what’s next.”

Results

Skipper Cup

Suva 28-26 Ba, Malolo 24-23 Taveuni, Rewa

15-31 Naitasiri, Navosa 26-27 Tailevu, Nadi

19-15 Kadavu, Lautoka 23-24 Nadroga.

Subrails Marama Cup

Rewa 0-55 Naitasiri, Suva 34-30 Ba, Nadi

26-20 Kadavu, Lautoka 29-48 Nadroga, Nasinu

24-17 Tailevu, Namosi 58-5 Macuata.