Swire Shipping Fijian Drua forward Zuriel Togiatama is eagerly counting down to the opening round of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, where he will face off against Moana Pasifika and some familiar faces from his past.
When asked about the opponents he’s most excited to play against, Togiatama immediately mentioned Tevita Ofa, a close friend from Counties Manukau. He noted the presence of several other familiar players in the Moana squad, promising a mix of friendly banter and intense competition, stating, “There’ll be a bit of banter, but you can also expect a lot of big hits.”
Despite the friendly rivalry, Togiatama emphasized his commitment to the Drua’s overall goals. “100 percent. That’s not more. Obviously, there’s still a lot we can work on and do better,” he said, acknowledging the importance of team defense. He reflected on the need for improvement, particularly in avoiding situations where too many players are committed to one side of the field.
Discipline is another priority, as Togiatama aims to reduce the risk of conceding easily scored points. He expressed a personal goal to quickly reset after each play, focusing on the next task rather than dwelling on successes or mistakes. “Every action on the field has to help the team,” he noted.
As the Drua gear up for their season opener against Moana Pasifika, Togiatama is ready to blend competition with camaraderie, looking to start the season on a high note. The match is scheduled for 3:35 PM this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka and will be available for live viewing on FBC Sports. With the anticipation building, both players and fans are poised for an exciting kickoff to the season.