Fijiana Drua book place in Super W decider with stunning comeback win

Reigning champions Fijiana Drua are the first side through to the 2023 Super W grand final following a gripping 20-17 semi-final triumph over the NSW Waratahs in Sydney.

In a rematch of last year’s title decider, the Drua staged a gallant comeback from 17-0 down early on to secure a thrilling victory at Concord Oval.

Chasing a second title in as many seasons in the competition, the Drua will play the winner of Sunday’s second semi-final between the Queensland Reds and Brumbies.

Centre Vani Arei’s second try 10 minutes from fulltime put the Drua in front for the first time and, despite attacking the opposition line in the closing minutes, the Waratahs were unable to conjure a winning play.

It was a disappointing end to the season for the Waratahs, who had entered the play-offs as unbeaten minor premiers and eyeing a fifth crown in six years.

They looked on track to gain sweet revenge for last year’s grand final defeat after racing to a 17-0 lead in as many minutes with a try in the opening seconds to Desiree Miller and following up quickly by further five-pointers to fellow winger Maya Stewart and hooker Adiana Talakai.

But Miller only converted one of them as the Drua hit back with two tries in four minutes mid-half to powerhouse prop Siteri Rasolea and Arei to trail 17-12 at the break.

A 42nd-minute penalty goal to fullback Luisa Tisolo dragged the Fijians to within two points of the Tahs, who produced a spirited defence display to keep the Drua at bay despite being under pressure for most of the second half.

But Arei finally broke through in the 70th minute as the Drua snapped a three-match losing streak to break Waratahs hearts and progress to the GF.

The Tahs had trounced the Drua 31-5 in round three at the same venue and entered the finals favourites for the title.