THE Fijian Drua threatened the Waikato Chiefs with an explosive start when tight head prop Mesake Doge scored a try just three minutes into the match.
Rattled, the Chiefs but soon regained their composure and started to dictate the pace. They dominated at scrum time and were rewarded with penalties. Kicking for touch, they were clinical in the lineouts before driving hard in the rolling maul.
Hard running number eight, Wallace Sititi, was the enforcer for the Chiefs forwards. The Drua had to really neutralize him.
Quinn Tupaea was at his usual best midfield making solid runs to really test the defensive capabilities of Drua inside centre Virimi Vakatawa.
Manasa Mataele was in scintillating form on the right wing, chasing after the high bombs and incredible with his tackles. The Drua competed well but the match turned close to half time when the Chiefs capitalised on a grubber by fullback Ilaisa Droasese from inside the Drua try zone. The Chiefs capitalized scored an easy try.
At halftime the Chiefs led 28 – 10 and were looking to completely shut down the Drua after the break.
The timely injection of replacements gave the Drua a boost. Kaiava Tagivetaua was accurate with his lineout throws and powerful with his carries.
Simione Kuruvoli was subbed in for Frank Lomani and worked his magic around the rucks. Elia Canakaivata and Isoa Nasilasila packed down hard to steady the scrums.
The Drua tried for a comeback in the last 20 minutes but the Chiefs were able to weather the storm and finish the game 42 – 22.
