The Fijian Drua have continued their hot streak in Lautoka, taking down ladder-leaders Chiefs 25-17 at Churchill Park.
The Drua braved the wet conditions and a strong Chiefs first half to take their maiden win over the Hamilton-based team.
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Winger Ponepati Loganimasi was the difference maker for the Drua, scoring and setting up a second half for their first win of the season.
All Black Samisoni Taukei’aho was strong in his return to the starting side, scoring the opener in the first three minutes.
The wet conditions dictated the flow of the game early as both sides dropped the ball early.
The Drua settled the game with a penalty from Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula before Jimmy Tupou charged over from close.
Armstrong-Ravula’s second penalty of the afternoon reduced the margin to six before the clearer conditions allowed the Drua to work their way into the game after the break.
Number eight Meli Derenalagi gave the hosts the perfect start after diving over from close range for the 13-12 lead.
The lead didn’t last long after centre Anton Lienert-Brown continued his strong season with his third try of the year.
Lienert-Brown won the race to the loose ball after Leroy Carter’s kick ahead allowed the centre to skid onto the ball and score.
Unfazed, the Drua mounted a charge close to the hour mark that decided the game through explosive winger Loganimasi.
The former Sevens star threw a lovely basketball-style pass inside to fullback Vuate Karawalevu, diving over to put them back in front.
Loganimasi then produced some magic after collecting a chip kick from halfway, chipping and chasing before soccering ahead for himself to extend the margin.
They held onto their lead until the end when Armstrong-Ravula kicked another penalty to put the result out of doubt.
Tupou Vaa’i ensured the Chiefs wouldn’t leave empty-handed, charging over well after the full-time siren for a losing bonus point.
It ensures the Chiefs remain on top, barring a Reds bonus point win, having played one more game than their Queensland counterparts.
Meanwhile, the win vaults the Drua into seventh for the time being, now set to head to Canberra to face the Brumbies.
