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In the first game of Round 5 of the NRC, the Canberra Vikings host the rampaging Fiji Drua at Viking Park. Join The Roar for a preview of the match and live scores from 7:30pm (AEST).
The Drua’s complete domination of the Perth Spirit last week sent shockwaves through the competition. In front of a raucous crowd, they ran in six outstanding tries. Even more impressive, they scored most tries from counter-attack or expansive play within their own half.
The skewed statistics were hardly an indicator of what happened on the park, as the Drua once again showed their impressive skills and ability to play exciting rugby with limited errors.
Frank Lomani was the man to watch last week against the Spirit, and he delivered emphatically, scoring a sneaky try with a dart on the blindside off a strong Drua scrum, which he followed up with an outstanding kick-chase to set up another try.
Lomani has that essential energising component to his game. He is always looking for an opportunity to score and capitalises off any small chances.
Meanwhile, Canberra were extremely unlucky to lose against the NSW Country Eagles by a single point. A converted try after fulltime sealed the Vikings’ fate and they have fallen to fourth on the ladder.
Lack of territory and possession suffocated the Vikings attacking play, especially in the second half. They now face an enormous challenge to get their season back on track, after two losses in a row.
Young, Kiwi fly-half Wharenui Hawera enjoyed a relatively successful Super Rugby season with the Brumbies and has continued this form into the NRC. A natural in attack, with good vision and passing, Hawera often looks to take on the line to create that extra opportunity.
Prediction
The Drua now sitting atop the NRC ladder and would be flying high after their outstanding win last weekend. However, the jury is still out on whether they can perform away from home.
The Vikings had a great start to the season but have experienced a slump in the last two weeks. Their loss on the weekend was quite unlucky, but a testament to the fact that they never really settled into the game.
Canberra should capitalise on home-ground advantage in a close game.
Vikings to win 29-21.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.