The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua know that, just like them, the Crusaders will be out for their first win after two losses in the first two rounds of the Super Rugby Pacific season this year.
To add to the pressure of facing the reigning champions, versatile lock and consistent player Isoa Nasilasila has been ruled out for three weeks due to an ankle injury.
Coach Mick Byrne said while this was an obvious blow to the team, it will also be the push that his players will need to go into this weekend’s game.
“Isoa is out with the injury to his ankle and while this is a blow we have Mesake Vocevoce playing the way he is and can cover and we also have Leone Rotuisolia who has plays in the same position too so they can cover well.”
Back at training this week are Taniela Rakuro, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Ilaisa Droasese who were earlier nursing injuries.
“It was good to see that they are doing well and to have them back at training this week after they were injured so that gives us some depth.” He said.
Byrne says that playing on home ground was also an advantage for the team.
“We don’t have to travel to play them, we’re playing them here at home and that’s an added plus for us as a team.”
The game kicks off at 1.05pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
