Moana Pasifika and Fijian Drua fall short in Super Rugby opener

The Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika did not have the starts they had hoped for, as both teams fell short against their Australian rivals in the opening round of the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

The Drua squandered a nine-point lead in the final minutes of their match against the ACT Brumbies, ultimately losing 32-36 in Suva.

Moana Pasifika also found themselves in a surprising position, leading 44-31 with 10 minutes remaining against the Western Force at HBF Park in Perth, only to suffer a devastating loss.

In a high-scoring affair, over 50 points were recorded in the first half, with the Force trailing Moana 24-27 at halftime in the hot, humid conditions.

All Blacks star and Moana Pasifika captain Ardie Savea was looking for his first win in his new role after 12 seasons with the Wellington Hurricanes. Honouring his Sāmoan heritage, Savea led his team in attack and defence.

Tries by winger Kyren Taumoefolau (two), playmaker Jackson Garden-Bachop, outside back Pepesana Patafilo, Semisi Tupou Tailoa, and halfback Jonathan Taumateine, as well as a drop goal from fullback William Havili and four conversions, could not secure a memorable victory for the Auckland-based team.

But it was Force playmaker Ben Donaldson who found a gap in the Moana Pasifika defence after 25 phases, running 70 metres to score the match-winner in the 83rd minute. Donaldson converted his try, securing a stunning 45-44 victory.

"It felt like we were going nowhere," Donaldson said in an interview with Stan Sport.

"Credit to our forwards; we spoke all week about getting set early, providing the platform for us, and looking for gaps on the outside. I'm just happy with that result."

Donaldson contributed 20 points, including his try, six conversions, and a penalty, along with tries from Carlo Tizzano (two), Mac Grealy, Marley Pearce, and Dylan Pietsch.

Earlier that day, the Fijian Drua put themselves in a tough position in the first half of their game against the Brumbies, as indiscipline plagued their performance.

Two yellow cards left them with only 13 players: Isikeli Rabitu received a card for a tip tackle, while Vuate Karawalevu was penalised for an unnecessary knock-down.

This allowed the Australians to capitalise quickly and silence the Fijian fans, who are usually their strongest advantage at home.

Watch highlights of the Fijian Drua and ACT Brumbies match in Suva.

While the Drua's composure deserves recognition, a crucial error ultimately cost them the game.

Coach Glen Jackson said he was proud of his players but added that playing with only 13 men in the first half was not the ideal start the Fijians had wanted.

“We definitely had our opportunities in the second half. We knew the Brumbies were going to be aggressive at the breakdown, and they were rewarded for it,” Jackson told a post-match press conference.

“It’s the first game of the season, and we expected some challenges for the boys. We’re disappointed, but a bonus point can be crucial at the end of the season.

Fijian Drua v ACT Brumbies. Photo/Fijivillage

"We’ll review our discipline issues positively, and we’re looking forward to a tough game against the Hurricanes.”

Round one of Super Rugby Pacific reminded fans why this premier Southern Hemisphere rugby competition is a must-watch event.

The exciting weekend began with two thrilling matches on Friday: The Crusaders overcame a 14-point deficit to defeat the Hurricanes in Christchurch 33-25.

And there was a dramatic late victory for the New South Wales Waratahs over the Otago Highlanders in Sydney 37-36, with Joseph Sua’ali’i showcasing the talent that justifies Rugby Australia’s million-dollar investment in his green and gold contract.

Last year's finalists, the Chiefs and Blues, faced off in Auckland. The Waikato side avenged their loss in 2024 to beat the defending champions 25-14.

Moana Pasifika earned a losing bonus point in Perth and will head to Brisbane to face the Queensland Reds on Friday night, while the Force will travel to Canberra to take on the Brumbies in round two.

The Drua also secured a losing bonus point and head to Wellington to play the Hurricanes on Saturday afternoon.

In other matches this week, the Chief host the Crusaders on Friday while the Highlanders take on the Blues in Dunedin on Saturday afternoon.