Crusaders match 28-year Super Rugby low as Fijian Drua claim victory ‘for the fans’

Fijian Drua captain Meli Derenalagi insists their 20-10 home triumph over the Crusaders was “for the fans” as the latter side went down to a third straight defeat.

This was the Drua’s second successive victory over the 13-time Super Rugby champions as Rob Penney’s start to his ‘Saders tenure has been disastrous to say the least.

Scott Robertson’s replacement in the hot-seat has been in charge of the Crusaders‘ worst start since the first campaign of Super Rugby back in 1996 as they sit 11th.

One for Lautoka crowd

The Drua bounced back from last weekend’s loss to Moana Pasifika as they claimed their first win of the season that lifts them up to 10th in the league standings.

Impressive defence helped the hosts seal the triumph and Drua skipper Derenalagi was delighted with the four points, not only for his team but their supporters.

“This win is not for us, it’s for the fans who always back us up,” he said.

‘King’ Julian Savea is officially Super Rugby Pacific’s all-time top try scorer

“The last two games we were frustrated and disappointed with two losses. Today the boys were on fire as we defended our turf.”

Injuries and off-season departures have not helped Crusaders boss Penney, with the likes of Richie Mo’unga currently playing in Japan and Will Jordan out long-term.

Two tries to one

Their only try of the match came from All Blacks winger Sevu Reece but tries from Selestino Ravutaumada and Player of the Match Frank Lomani helped seal the win.

“We didn’t execute, we just weren’t sharp and clinical as we’d like,” said Crusaders captain Scott Barrett as their title defence looks very much on the ropes.

“You give the Fijian Drua a sniff and they’ll punish you.”

READ MORE: WATCH: Brother of ex-All Black winger wows leaving FIVE defenders in his wake