NRC: Drua want title to inspire next Fijian rugby generation

Sun, Oct 28, 2018, 3:06 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
Fijian Drua have taken out the National Rugby Championship in style beating last years defending champions Queensland Country 36-26. Drua coach Senirusi Seruvakula touches an incredible second season and what it took to win.

The Fiji Drua want to inspire the next generation of XVs hopefuls with their NRC win.

It took Fiji just two seasons in the NRC to claim the title with a 36-26 win over Queensland Country on Saturday and coach Senirusi Seruvakula says the impact will go beyond just that win.

Though rugby has religion-like status in Fiji, many of the country's aspiring professionals have had to move away from home to find any kind of serious environment.

The NRC has provided a step up from domestic rugby to the Flying Fijians Test side and Seruvakula said they were simply grateful to have been granted a spot in the NRC.

"It's been massive, it's been an enjoyable competition and we are lucky the Australian Rugby Union have given us this opportunity to play in this level so that our local players can showcase their talent," he said.

"Full credit to Australian rugby for allowing us and if we were not allowed, we would keep on playing our domestic rugby and these guys will be shocked to go into international rugby to play rugby."

The Fiji Drua won their first NRC title on Saturday. Photo: Getty ImagesThe final was played in front of a crowd of more than 6000 at Lautoka's Churchill Park and

"These guys playing for the Drua will be their heroes," he said.

"Everyone who will be playing from primary school to secondary school, they want to represent the Drua.

"The Drua we bring in a different kind of rugby - entertainment and full of skill  they have to be very good and that's what's going to be going into everyone, going into the competition next year domestically they have to showcase their talent if they want to be playing in the NRC and especially defending the trophy next year."

Drua captain Moses Voka was overcome with emotion speaking after the match.

"I can't express it in words it's a great privilege winning this," he said.

"I think it's a big trophy and can't say much, don't know how to express myself but I'm really happy for the boys."

Rugby Australia high performance manager Ben Whitaker said the Drua had been an exciting addition to the competition.

“Over the course of the NRC season, the Drua played enterprising, exciting rugby that enthralled and entertained fans in Fiji, around Australia and across the world," he said.

“I know many Drua players have been picked for national squad duties following on from their performances this season and we wish them well in their endeavours."

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