The Crusaders responded to their drubbing by Moana Pasifika last week emphatically with a 14-31 win over Fijian Drua, marking their first Super Rugby victory at Suva’s ANZ Stadium.
Early tries from Noah Hotham, Antonio Shalfoon, and Chay Fihaki set the tone for a dominant first half, as handling errors from both sides marred play in the sweltering conditions.
Second-half tries from Macca Springer and Ioane Moananu sealed the result before the Drua fought back with late tries from Isikeli Rabitu and Etonia Waqa. Despite the brief surge, the Crusaders held firm, with captain Codie Taylor citing their determination to bounce back and “right a few wrongs.”
The Crusaders now climb to second place on the table, while the Drua remain at the bottom ahead of their clash with the Highlanders.
