Drua Captain Dedicates Emotional Victory to Fans and Easter Celebrations
Fijian Drua captain Meli Derenalagi has dedicated his side’s hard-fought victory to all Fijians and supporters celebrating Easter, describing the win as a tribute to faith, family, and resilience. In an emotional post-match statement, Derenalagi acknowledged the deep significance of the holiday for many and credited the passionate support of fans as a major driving force behind the team’s spirited performance.
The victory came after a demanding five-week stretch in the Super Rugby Pacific campaign, where the Drua had faced both on-field challenges and the rigours of extensive travel. Despite the adversity, the team produced a determined display to edge out their opponents, securing valuable points and reaffirming their position as a competitive force in the tournament.
Speaking to the media after the match, Derenalagi said, “This win is for everyone back home, especially those celebrating Easter. It’s a time for reflection and faith, and we wanted to honour that with our performance. We’ve been through a lot as a group over the past few weeks, but the support from our fans has kept us going. We are truly grateful.”
Derenalagi, who has grown into a respected leader within the squad, praised his teammates for showing composure and unity throughout the contest. He also highlighted the emotional and spiritual connection the team shares with their supporters, many of whom see the Drua as a symbol of national pride and hope.
“This team plays with heart, and we carry the spirit of our people every time we step onto the field,” Derenalagi said. “We know that Easter is a sacred time for so many, and we wanted to bring joy and a reason to celebrate. Whether they were watching from villages, towns, or the diaspora abroad, we hope they felt the love and gratitude we have for them.”
The win was particularly poignant given the Drua’s mixed start to the season. After a series of narrow losses and inconsistency in key moments, the team appears to be finding their rhythm at a crucial juncture. Head coach Mick Byrne echoed the captain’s sentiments, stating that the win was not only important in terms of points but also for team morale and connection to the Fijian community.
“Our players gave everything today,” Byrne said. “It was a performance built on belief and passion. Meli has been a fantastic captain, and his message of dedicating this to the fans and the Easter celebration is heartfelt. We’re proud to represent Fiji.”
The Drua now look ahead to their upcoming fixtures with renewed confidence and the aim of building momentum. While the road ahead remains tough, the team’s resilience and connection to its roots provide a powerful foundation.
As the country continues its Easter celebrations, the Drua’s triumph serves as a timely reminder of unity, perseverance, and the joy that sport can bring to a nation. For Derenalagi and his squad, the message is clear: they’re not just playing rugby—they’re playing for their people.
