Fitness is the focus for Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson as the team gears up for their Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific opener against the Brumbies in Suva on February 15.

After fielding a sevens team at last weekend’s McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament in Sigatoka, the focus now is on the pre-season clash against the RFC Los Angeles at Churchill Park, Lautoka, on Friday.

The Drua sevens team beat local champions BLK Lavidi Brothers 8-5 in the Cup quarterfinal and took the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team to the wire before bowing out 28-5 in the semifinal.

Speaking to SUNsports, Jackson said fitness is an important key in this season’s Super Rugby competition.

“It was really a good performance by the boys. Most of the players have been working hard on their fitness and it’s good they are improving day in and day out,” he said.

Jackson said the team was formed to test their players in the shorter code of the sport.

“It was a tough tournament but I am pleased with the boys and how they played. We can’t wait to see what the season holds for us,” he said.

He also said the players selected were to get some game time.

“With the pre-season against RFCLA, most of the boys will fight for a spot in the final team and it will be great to see that,” he said.

Hooker Mesulame Dolokoto said he was grateful to have some game time during the Coral Coast tournament.

“Coming back from injury, it was a good refresher and a challenge to lead the boys in the tournament,” Dolokoto said.

The former Flying Fijians hooker said, his goal is to play to his best and make the main Drua team.

“It is going to be hard but I will be up for the challenge,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Drua’s pre-season clash against RFCLA kicks-off at 3pm.

Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj