BLUES CLAIM INAUGURAL JOELI VIDIRI TROPHY

The Blues have delivered a commanding 40-15 bonus point victory over the Fijian Drua at Eden Park, continuing their strong push at the top of the Super Rugby Pacific table.

In a performance built on forward dominance and clinical finishing, the home side overcame early pressure to take control, with hooker Bradley Slater leading the way with a brace from powerful rolling mauls.

The Blues made an electric start, crossing inside the opening 10 minutes when Malachi Wrampling finished off a sharp attacking sequence to ignite Eden Park.

While the Drua responded quickly, the Blues’ set-piece and physicality began to assert itself, creating repeat opportunities deep in opposition territory.

Slater capitalised soon after, crashing over from close range as the Blues’ maul proved a consistent weapon throughout the night.

Despite sustained pressure from the visitors, the Blues remained composed, managing the game effectively through the middle stages of the first half.

The Drua closed the gap late before the break, but the Blues regrouped at halftime with a narrow lead and clear intent.

The second half belonged firmly to the home side.

Slater grabbed his second try early in the half, once again finishing the work of a dominant forward pack as the Blues turned pressure into points. From there, the game opened up, with the Blues’ impact off the bench proving decisive.

Codemeru Vai injected energy and creativity, linking effectively with Payton Spencer to stretch the defence before Spencer produced a moment of brilliance - finishing a length of the field movement that showcased the Blues’ ability to turn defence into attack in an instant.

The play began deep inside Blues territory, with a crucial turnover sparking a sweeping counterattack through Beauden Barrett and Finlay Christie, ending with Spencer diving over to seal momentum.

Caleb Clarke put the finishing touches on the performance, powering over in the corner after the fulltime siren to secure the bonus point and cap a polished team display.

With six tries in total and control asserted through both set-piece and open play, the Blues continue to build momentum, remaining firmly in the hunt at the top of the competition.

Blues 40: (Tries: Slater 2, Wrampling, Spencer, Clarke, Vai; Cons: Barrett 5)
Fijiana Drua 15: (Tries: Waqa, Vocevoce; Cons: Valetini; Pens: Valetini)
Referee: Reuben Keane