Fijian Drua vs Blues Prediction: Blues could struggle in Suva

Reigning Super Rugby Pacific champions, the Blues, have struggled on their travels of late, and they will certainly be put through their paces when they head to ANZ Stadium to face Fijian Drua on Friday morning (08:05, Sky Sports Mix).

Alex Jack provides his best bets in this Fijian Drua vs Blues prediction piece, as well as all the essential team news and match odds for the showdown in Suva.

Rugby Union Odds

Team News

Starting with the hosts, Fijian Drua have Haereiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama and Mesake Doge in the front row, with Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila in the engine room.

Joseva Tamani, Isoa Tuwai and Kitione Salawa Jr. are in the back row, with Simione Kuruvoli and Kemu Valetini in the half-backs.

Inia Tabuavou and Vuate Karawalevu make up the centres, while there’s a back three of Taniela Rakuro, Selestino Ravutaumada and Ponipate Loganimasi.

As for the Blues, Josh Fusitu'a, Ricky Riccitelli and Marcel Renata form the front row, with locks Patrick Tuipulotu and Laghlan McWhannell in behind.

The back row consists of Anton Segner, Dalton Papali'i and Hoskins Sotutu, while Taufa Funaki and Beauden Barrett start in the half-backs.

Xavi Taele and Rieko Ioane make up the centres, with AJ Lam, Cole Forbes and Corey Evans in the back three.

Fijian Drua vs Blues Odds

Fijian Drua are 19/10 to secure their first victory over the Blues on Friday, while the Auckland outfit are 4/9 to head back to New Zealand with the win.

A draw is available at 22/1, while the Blues to be leading at both the half-time and full-time whistle is available at 5/6.

Fijian Drua +6 handicap @ 21/20

The Blues might be the reigning Super Rugby Pacific champions but they have failed to reach the same heights as last season so far.

Currently down in seventh place with four wins from 11 games, the Blues’ away form has been the main reason why they find themselves 15 points behind frontrunners the Chiefs going into Round 13.

Losing four of their last five games away from Auckland, the Blues have looked vulnerable on their travels and Fijian Drua have the ability to make life difficult for Vern Cotter’s side in Suva.

Drua have won three of their last four games at home, beating the Chiefs, Waratahs and Reds in that time.

Going with a more conservative approach, Fijian Drua with a +6 handicap still offers value at 6/5.

Under 51.5 total points @ 21/20

Games between these two sides don’t tend to feature all that many points, with 44 or fewer being scored in each of the last three meetings.

Rain has been forecast in Suva throughout this week and the warm and wet conditions will make handling difficult.

Expect a low-scoring tussle in Suva and under 51.5 total points looks to be the way to go.

Rugby Union Betting Tips from Betfred Insights