Fijian Drua have prevailed in their inaugural clash with Moana Pasifika, winning 34-19 in Parramatta.
The 1st meeting of the Super Rugby Pacific’s latest sides proved a high-scoring affair at CommBank Stadium, with the Fijians observing off a fighting Pasifika line-up and proclaiming their second victory of the season.
But crushed Moana captain and previous Wallaby Sekope Kepu stated the match was considerable for much more than just the outcome.
“Today was a exclusive working day, a historic day for Pacific Island individuals, for Polynesian men and women,” he advised Stan Sport.
“Obviously it is a disappointing final result for us.
“A pair of the early attempts, the bounce of the ball can be rather cruel occasionally, but that’s Fijian style rugby, pouncing on every option you get.”
The Drua were being ahead within 5 minutes when Kalaveti Ravouvou located a attractive offload for Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta to cross, and it was 14- before long immediately after when fast winger Vinaya Habosi broke totally free and ran much more than half the discipline to score.
Moana got on the board when Solomone Funaki peeled off the back of a maul and barged above, but a fortuitous bounce allow the Drua prolong their guide late in the first half by means of Apisalome Vota.
The potent Pasifika maul authorized prop Abraham Pole to rating and reduce the margin to 12 just before the crack, and they were being even nearer early in the 2nd 50 % when an inch-excellent kick from Danny Toala found winger Timoci Tavatavanawai to cross in the corner.
At 24-19, Moana had moments in which it seemed as if they could flavor victory, but the Drua iced the contest with a penalty just before Vota doubled up for 34-19.
It was the Drua’s very first earn given that round 3, when they knocked off the Melbourne Rebels.
© AAP
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