Waratahs’ error-strewn loss to Drua leaves coach McKellar in foul mood

SYDNEY – Coach Dan McKellar criticised a mistake-riddled performance by his New South Wales Waratahs after they slumped to a 28-14 defeat against the last-placed Fijian Drua in Super Rugby Pacific on April 19.

The 48-year-old, who took over as Waratahs coach ahead of the current season, was left in a cantankerous mood by a performance that saw his team fail to build on a victory over the table-topping Waikato Chiefs the previous week.

"Too many errors, too many turnovers, which the Drua thrive on. We didn't help ourselves," said McKellar after the match at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji.

"Are we disappointed? Are we disappointed? What do you think? What would you think? Yes, we are disappointed.

"I'll review the game and have a look and we'll see if there is any positivity to come out of it. There were some good moments, but the Drua deserved the win."

The Waratahs were left chasing the game from early in proceedings, with a pair of penalties from flyhalf Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula and a converted try by loose forward Motikai Murray earning the Drua a commanding lead by the 23rd minute.

Replacement flanker Langi Gleeson crossed the line to give the visitors hope, but winger Ponepati Loganimasi touched down in the 38th minute as the Drua went on to pick up the points.

The loss leaves the Waratahs in sixth place in the Super Rugby standings as McKellar's team seek a berth in the six-team end-of-season finals.

"It's disappointing," said Waratahs captain Hugh Sinclair. "We had a clear plan in place but they were too good.

"Can't miss that many tackles in the first half and expect to get a good result. We made some errors and played into their hands and they love that sort of footie. Very disappointing." REUTERS