Revolutionary new sidestep invented accidentally
The Fijian Drua left it late against Moana Pasifika in the opening round of this year’s Super Rugby Pacific, but they pulled off a win in pretty spectacular fashion on Saturday at Mount Smart Stadium.
Debutant Taniela Rakuro was the player to thank, although it could have gone all so wrong for the winger. With a one on one with the fullback William Havili in the corner, Rakuro conveniently slipped, meaning he evaded the tackle completely. As far as complete accidents go on a rugby pitch, they don’t come any better than Rakuro’s slip.
The try delivered a 36-34 win for the Drua, take a look:
WOW 🤯 The Drua at the death, is that the match winner?
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Moana Pasifika XV
1. Ezekiel Lindenmuth (13)
2. Samiuela Moli (11)
3. Sosefo (Joe) ‘Apiktoa (11)
4. Samuel Slade (9)
5. Mahonri Ngakuru (5)
6. Michael Curry (8)
7. Solomone Funaki (10)
8. Jonah Mau’u *
9. Ereatara Enari (9)
10. Christian Lealiifano (11) – Captain
11. Neria Foma’i (5)
12. Danny Toala (12)
13. Levi Aumua (9)
14. Timoci Tavatavanawai (8)
15. William Havili (11)
Replacements
16. Luteru Tolai (8)
17. Abraham Pole (9)
18. Chris Apoua (5)
19. Mike McKee (2)
20. Alamanda Motuga (8)
21. Manu Paea (4)
22. Henry Taefu (8)
23. Fine Inisi (9)
* Denotes Super Rugby Pacific Debut
Fijian Drua XV
1. Emosi Tuqiri*
2. Tevita Ikanivere (c)
3. Jone Koroiduadua
4. Isoa Nasilasila
5. Leone Rotuisolia
6. Joseva Tamani
7. Kitione Salawa
8. Te Cirikidaveta
9. Frank Lomani
10. Teti Tela
11. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre
12. Kalaveti Ravouvou
13. Iosefo Masi*
14. Selestino Ravutaumada
15. Ilaisa Droasese
Replacements
16. Zuriel Togiatama
17. Jone Tiko
18. Samuela Tawake
19. Sorovakatini Tuifagalele
20. Elia Canakaivata**
21. Peni Matawalu
22. Caleb Muntz
23. Taniela Rakuro**
* Denotes Super Rugby Pacific Debut
