In a dynamic display of rugby at Suncorp Stadium, the Reds clinched a convincing 45-24 victory over the Fijian Drua. Despite the Drua's spirited start and a hat-trick from their standout player Manasa Mataele, it was the Reds' formidable forward power that tipped the scales in their favor in this Super Rugby Pacific encounter.
The game began with the Drua in the ascendancy, thanks to Mataele's early try, which set the tone for what was initially a closely contested match. However, the Reds quickly gathered themselves, with Matt Faessler, Filipo Daugunu, and Josh Flook delivering tries that handed the hosts a lead they would continue to build upon throughout the match.
Despite trailing at halftime, the Drua began the second half with renewed vigor, momentarily gaining the lead with quick successive tries. Yet, the Reds responded robustly—tries from Harry Wilson and another from Faessler shifted the momentum decisively. The Reds' forwards were particularly dominant, turning the tide with critical plays during lineouts and scrums.
"Our forward pack really stood up today, setting a platform that allowed us to play our style of rugby,"
noted Reds' coach Les Kiss, reflecting on the match's pivotal moments.While the Drua showcased their signature expansive play, highlighted by Mataele's exceptional performance which included a match-high 96 meters from 11 runs, it was ultimately insufficient against the structured and powerful game of the Reds. Mataele's efforts, particularly his intercept try and a clever grubber that he regathered for his second, were standout moments of individual brilliance.
Reds' players also put forward compelling cases for national selection. Tate McDermott's return to play was marked by incisive decision-making and sharp distribution, while Daugunu's mid-game entry was impactful, with a try and an assist to his name. Among the forwards, Faessler's dual tries underscored his critical role in the tight phases, and Seru Uru's efforts did not go unnoticed.
The match also featured a significant second-half contribution from former France international Virimi Vakatawa, now playing for the Drua. His tactical acumen was on full display, particularly with a cross-field kick that set up Mataele’s third try. Despite this, the Reds held firm, their strategic play in the forwards sealing a win in what was a fitting farewell for Coach Kiss in front of the home crowd.
This match not only highlighted individual talents but also underscored the strategic nuances of rugby, where control in forward play can decisively influence the outcome. As the Reds march on, the performance leaves both teams with valuable insights and developments for their upcoming fixtures.