The Fijian Drua secured a landmark victory over the ACT Brumbies on Saturday, defeating the Australian side 42–27 in the first Super Rugby Pacific match ever played in Ba.
The result marked the Drua’s first win against the Brumbies since the Fijian side joined the competition in 2022 and unfolded in front of a packed crowd at 4R Stadium, where fans braved heat and humidity to witness the historic fixture.
Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka attended the match and met with Phil Waugh, chief executive of Rugby Australia, during the event. Their meeting underscored the growing sporting links between Fiji and Australia under the countries’ Vuvale Partnership, which promotes cooperation across sectors, including sport.
Rabuka congratulated the Drua after the match, describing the victory as significant for both the team and local supporters. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the large turnout of fans who filled the stadium for the inaugural top-level rugby match in the town.
The match itself delivered an entertaining contest, with both sides scoring five tries. However, the boot of Drua fly-half Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula proved decisive as the hosts converted key opportunities to extend their lead.
The Brumbies opened the scoring with an early try before the Drua responded quickly through strong attacking phases, including a powerful run from Etonia Waqa. The visitors briefly gained momentum after two Drua players were sent to the sin bin, allowing Toby Macpherson to score his first Super Rugby try and help the Brumbies narrow the gap before half-time.
Heavy rain swept across Ba after the break, but the home side adapted well to the conditions. Tries from Sairusi Ravudi and Selestino Ravutaumada extended the Drua’s advantage as the match became increasingly physical in the wet conditions.
The Brumbies fought back through Macpherson’s second try and a long-range move finished by Ryan Lonergan, which briefly raised hopes of a comeback. Armstrong-Ravula’s penalty goals, however, kept the Drua in control as the match entered its final stages.
Brumbies captain Andy Muirhead crossed for a late consolation try, but the hosts maintained their lead to secure a memorable victory in Ba.
The match also marked a personal milestone for Brumbies forward Rob Valetini, who played his 100th Super Rugby game in the country of his family’s heritage.
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