DRUA DUO TO FACE OFF IN NPC FINAL SHOWDOWN

“At the start of the season I didn’t know how the team would go but every week we’ve grown together and being in the final means our hard work has paid off, but the job is not done yet. The feeling going into the final is surreal, the support down here in Otago is unmatched, it’s not every year you get to the final so I feel blessed. I’m also happy for Mataele, watching him throughout the season gets me excited to play with him in the drua next year."

“Playing in the final in front of our home crowd is an incredible opportunity. It will also be a tough battle going up against Joe (Tamani)."

“That’s exciting — it’s a big challenge. Canterbury and Otago games are always massive derbies in New Zealand, so it’s great to see two of our Drua players involved. Manasa, being new to the Drua Club, and Canterbury have been in plenty of finals. Joe Tamani has been outstanding for Otago. It’s shaping up to be a great clash, and I just hope both enjoy the occasion, stay injury-free, and come out proud of their efforts.”