NSW Waratahs backrower Langi Gleeson is hoping a more ‘personal’ touch to Saturday’s match with the Fijian Drua will flip their away struggles.
The Waratahs have yet to record an away win despite standing in the top six.
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However, the squad is fired up after a thrilling 21-14 win over title contenders Chiefs, and Gleeson believes they need to bring that same energy into this week’s game in Fiji.
“At home, everything’s familiar, but when we’re away, especially in a place like Lautoka, we need to get personal and lift,” Gleeson said to reporters.
“It’s about bringing that same energy and discipline we had last week.”
They travel to Lautoka against the last-placed Fijian Drua, knowing their place on the table means little when they face off.
The two teams faced off in Round Three, with the Waratahs edging out a 29-24 win in the final three minutes.
“The whole competition is dangerous – anyone can lose, anyone can win,” Gleeson said.
“When we play the Drua, they are always switched on. They always go hard at us.
“If they are number one or last, we need to take this really seriously
“They always lift when they play us – it’s one of the most physical games of the year.”
Gleeson will have plenty of support in the crowd, with dozens of family members based in Suva and all across Fiji.
It leaves the Wallabies' backrower hunting for further tickets for a clash that he always gets up for, given his Fijian heritage, with Gleeson scoring a double in February’s thrilling win.
“It means everything to me," Gleeson said
"I’ve got a lot of family in Fiji. There’ll be a lot coming depending on how many tickets I can bring … maybe 20, maybe 50.
“Last time I was there, there were heaps of them. It’ll be good to see them all again.
“…The whole nation loves the Drua and loves rugby,” Gleeson said.
“It’s always tough playing over there. We lost to them last time in Fiji [in 2024]. So, it’s important we play our best footy like we did last week.”
