Play as a unit, Drua forwards urged

The Fijian Drua must lift their performance from their opening two Super Rugby matches if they are to match the Hurricanes at Churchill Park in Lautoka today.

That is the view of former Flying Fijians and Queensland Reds prop Peni Volavola.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, the Australian Level 2 coach said the Drua forwards must operate as a unit if they are to stand a chance of beating the Hurricanes.

“There were a lot of individual plays by the Drua forwards against Moana Pasifika and Waratahs,” Volavola said.

“You cannot play individually at that level. The (Drua) forwards coach should keep reminding his men to play together. The forwards have got to be communicating all the time so they are all on the same page.

“If Elia (Canakaivata) decides to run straight at the opposition, then he should communicate it with the other forwards so they can provide the support.

“It’s great to see Elia make those runs but at times, he tend to isolate himself and lose the ball in the process.

“By playing together the forwards should be able to win their balls from the scrum, lineout and forward play. This will enable the backline to do their work.”

Volavola said although the Drua have lost key playmaker Caleb Muntz, they now have a promising first five-eighth in Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula.

“Ravula is doing well and should be given the support he needs.”

He said it was critical for the Drua players to stick to the game plan set by the coaches.

“The Drua players have to play to their strength. Despite what difficulties they face during the game, they must always stick to the game plan and the win will come,” Volavola added.

He also reminded the Drua players not to play to the crowd but to remain focused on their game plan.