Rabitu returns as Jackson backs Droasese

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s Sikeli Rabitu returns at full-back, while head coach Glen Jackson has defended Ilaisa Droasese from criticism.

Rabitu will wear the No.15 jersey in Saturday’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Highlanders at Govind Park in Ba.

“Obviously he (Rabitu) had a horrendous knock in the Brumbies game,” Jackson said.

“Everyone here knows how much I respect what he brings, so we’re excited about his return.”

Jackson said the short turnaround after last Sunday’s match in Christchurch would test both teams physically.

“Mental is easy. Physically, it’s demanding to come from Christchurch after a Sunday game with a six-day turnaround.

“It’s not easy with a five-hour flight back from Christchurch, but the Highlanders have done the same, so there’s no excuse. They also played on Sunday, so both teams are in the same position.

“We get one training session and I’m sure they’ll do the same, so it’s about making sure the boys are physically prepared. Mentally, there are no issues. The boys are fired up and can’t wait to perform at home.”

Jackson also defended Droasese, who came under scrutiny after last week’s errors that led to three tries.

“I’ve got a lot of loloma (love) for Droasese. I’ve coached him a long time. There’s nothing to say about his performance apart from one incident he would like to take back, but that happens all the time.

“Every rugby player makes a mistake. I hope the public understand this is a great young man and he needs positive support to play good rugby. As a club, we’re certainly putting our arm around him.”

Jackson said Droasese continues to have strong support within the squad.

“The players are supporting him well. Gaylene Osborne, our sports scientist and psychologist, has also been outstanding. The public care and want us to win, but it is disappointing to single out one player. Droasese is a fantastic young man and a talented rugby player.”

The match kicks off at 4pm.

Line-up

Drua: 1. Haereiti Hetet, 2. Zuriel Togiatama, 3. Mesake Doge, 4. Isoa Nasilasila. 5. Temo Mayanavanua (c), 6. Joseva Tamani, 7. Kitione Salawa, 8. Elia Canakaivata (50), 9. Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, 10. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, 11. Joji Nasova, 12. Virimi Vakatawa, 13. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, 14. Frank Lomani, 15. Isikeli Rabitu

Reserves: 16. Kavaia Tagivetaua, 17. Emosi Tuqiri, 18. Peni Ravai, 19. Mesake Vocevoce, 20. Isoa Tuwai, 21. Philip Baselala, 22. Kemu Valetini, 23. Maika Tuitubou

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