Five things we learnt from NSW Waratahs - Fijian Drua

Fri, Feb 20, 2026, 10:24 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson

The NSW Waratahs have once again ridden some Max Jorgensen magic and a hot second half to a bonus-point victory over the Fijian Drua.

The 36-13 win doesn't reflect the hosts' true fight, as they rallied from a slow first half to get the job done.

Watch every second of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season live and on demand via Stan Sport.

So what did we learn?

1. McKellar masterclass

NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar deserves credit for how he used his impact players, as they changed the game and ultimately secured the win.

McKellar almost emptied his bench at the 49th minute with six changes, and it provided the burst of energy needed to run away with the game.

Hooker Ioane Moananu got all the reward with his double and rightfully so after nailing all aspects of the game.

But the likes of Isaac Kailea, Angus Blyth and Jack Debreczeni also deserve mention, adding some class and quality in the key moments.

It allows the NSW side to go into the bye with maximum points, knowing the true test against the Hurricanes awaits in a fortnight.  

2. Drua time to reflect

The Fijian Drua need to rally fast if they are going to keep up with the rest of the competition.

Again, the Drua were in a position to come home with the win, but they fell apart due to discipline.

They showed glimpses of the damaging side they can be, but face a tough period against the Hurricanes and Brumbies at home.

They need to win at least one of these games; otherwise it’s a tough road home.

3. Scrum the true weapon

With all the Wallabies in the backline, it was the Waratahs pack and scrum that ultimately proved the difference.

They bullied the Drua all night, winning penalties constantly across the 80 minutes.

It settled the Waratahs when their attack was struggling and provided the key territory to launch.

Whilst not the big names of last year, beware the Waratahs scrum.

4. Out of this world wing battle

Max Jorgensen keeps getting better.

The winger’s catalogue of tries keeps growing, adding to it with another special effort late in the half.

Jorgensen had no right to score, beating Taniela Rakuro in an inch of space before tip-toeing his way on the sideline for the try.

It was an entertaining battle with Rakuro, who had neatly gassed Jorgensen minutes earlier, opening the scoring for the Drua in the corner.

Super Rugby Pacific is full of exciting wingers, with the Hurricanes showcasing their stars earlier on in their thumping of Moana Pasifika.

5. Suva or Sydney

The Fijian Drua were right at home as both teams struggled with the humidity in Sydney.

It led to added emphasis on the kicking battle as neither team could handle the high ball.

There was a passage of play late in the first half where both sides dropped key balls inside their half, gifting the chance for crucial points.

The Waratahs especially struggled early after half-time, inviting pressure and field position for the Drua. However, they did enough to break them down and find a way home late.

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