The Hurricanes narrowly avoided a historic upset against the Fijian Drua, clinching a dramatic 38-34 victory in a pulsating Super Rugby Pacific clash at McLean Park, Napier. In a match filled with end-to-end action, the Hurricanes had to dig deep to secure their first win of the 2025 season.
Fast Start, Early Warnings
The hosts wasted no time making an impact, with co-captain Du Plessis Kirifi crossing the try line inside the first 40 seconds. Halfback Cam Roigard found a gap in the Drua’s defence, setting up Kirifi for an emphatic opening statement. However, any thoughts of a one-sided contest were quickly dismissed as the Drua responded swiftly.
Fullback Callum Harkin’s handling error gifted Drua an attacking platform, and within minutes, winger Junior Ratuva finished in the right-hand corner to level the score. With both teams playing at breakneck speed, ill-discipline soon crept in for the Hurricanes. Two separate yellow cards—first to Kirifi for a dangerous challenge and later to debutant Will Tucker—left them shorthanded.
The Fijian Drua capitalised on their numerical advantage, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula slotting a long-range penalty before adding a converted try to put the visitors ahead. By halftime, the Drua led 22-19, leaving the Hurricanes with work to do.
Drua’s Flair, Hurricanes’ Response
The second half showcased the Drua’s signature attacking brilliance. In one of the most dazzling tries of the match, the visitors launched an 80-meter counterattack, producing stunning offloads that ended with Isoa Nasilasila storming over the line.
However, the Hurricanes refused to back down. Roigard, one of the standout performers of the match, pulled his side back into contention with a crucial try, narrowing the deficit to just one point. The introduction of All Blacks forwards Pasilio Tosi and Peter Lakai brought renewed energy, allowing the Hurricanes to regain momentum.
Kini Naholo, quiet in the first half, burst into life with a crucial break that led to Bailyn Sullivan crossing over, momentarily putting the Hurricanes ahead. Yet, the Drua struck back yet again through No. 8 Elia Canakaivata, who powered over from a lineout drive to reclaim the lead.
Godfrey’s Heroics Seal the Deal
With just minutes left on the clock, the Drua found themselves in a strong position to claim a landmark victory in New Zealand. But a crucial mistake at the kick-off proved costly. The Hurricanes regained possession, patiently worked through the phases, and found space for young first-five Harry Godfrey to dive over in the corner.
Godfrey’s try, coupled with his accurate goal-kicking throughout the match, proved to be the decisive blow as the Hurricanes held on to secure the win.
What’s Next?
Despite securing their first victory of the season, Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw will likely be concerned by his team’s discipline and defensive lapses. They now turn their attention to a blockbuster clash against the reigning champions, the Blues, in Wellington next weekend.
For the Fijian Drua, the match was another example of their growing stature in Super Rugby Pacific. While they leave Napier empty-handed, their performance reaffirmed their ability to challenge top-tier sides. If they can cut down on costly errors, they’ll be a formidable force as the season progresses.
Match Summary
Hurricanes 38 (Kirifi, Iose, Fineanganofo, Roigard, Sullivan, Godfrey tries; Godfrey 4 conversions)Fijian Drua 34 (Ratuva, Armstrong-Ravula, Lomani, Nasilasila, Canakaivata tries; Armstrong-Ravula 3 conversions, 1 penalty)Halftime: Drua 22-19
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