Drua debutants impress in 36-34 win over Moana Pasifika

Swire Shipping Fijian Drua debutants Iosefo Masi and Taniela Rakuro were impressive in their first Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific game as they downed Moana Pasifika 36-34 in Auckland this afternoon.

Moana Pasifika got back to back tries from their props Abraham Pole and Chris Apoua to take a 12-0 lead before Drua captain Tevita Ikanivere got them back into the game with a try for a 5-12 score.

Mike Curry scored to extend Moana’s lead to 19-5.

Sam Slade of Moana Pasifika was sin binned and the Drua capitalised on this through Joseva Tamani’s try to bring it up to 19-12.

Masi scored his first try to level things at 19-19.

Danny Toala got one more for Moana just before half-time as they lead into the break 26-19.

Captain courageous Tevita Ikanivere scored his second bringing them close with just a two points difference before Abraham Pole raced away for his second to extend Moana’s lead to 31-24.

Brilliant play from the Drua set up Masi’s second try to level things at 31 all.

Christian Leali'ifano edged Moana up again with a penalty conversion to lead 34-31 with 5 minutes left to play.

Taniela Rakuro scored on debut ensuring that the Fijian Drua win their first away game as well as their first game of the season.