Step up, Drua forwards urged

The Fijian Drua forwards will need to step-up against the Crusaders in Friday's Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific clash in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Drua head coach Glen Jackson said it is a historic match at the Apollo Projects Stadium since the Crusaders would be hosting their final match at the venue.

"The boys were looking forward to have the last game at Amy Park and hopefully send the old Crusaders into a bit of a sad time to leave the sta­dium, as well as not quite getting the win. That would be ideal for everyone in Fiji, I'm sure," Jackson said.

"I think they (Crusaders) have changed a little bit from what they were. They certainly play a lot of running game. They're there trying to make their fans enjoy.

Jackson said the Crusaders for­wards work really hard.

"You've got guys like (Ethan) Blackadder, who's an extremely hardwork­ing man. Certainly, they probably haven't had it all their own way this year."

Jackson added that while the Cru­saders have had some ups and downs in terms of their performance, they know how important this game is.

He said having a six-day turnaround from a hard game against the Blues is a challenge.

"It's about getting the balance right for our squad and making sure that we go in with a positive attitude."