Extra Supermarket Rewa FC, one of the most consistent teams in recent years, enters this year’s Flour Mills of Fiji Inter-District Championship (FMF IDC) at Churchill Park, Lautoka, with high expectations. Despite their impressive performances in the Digicel Fiji Premier League and other domestic competitions, the Delta Tigers have not claimed the IDC title in 14 years.
Rewa’s rich history with the IDC includes being the first team to win the prestigious tournament in 1938, securing back-to-back titles in 1938-1939 and 1943-1944. However, their last triumph came in 2010 when they defeated Lautoka 3-1 in the final. Under the guidance of coach Rodeck Singh, Rewa FC has yet to reach the finals of the tournament since that victory.
This season, the Delta Tigers dominated the Digicel Fiji Premier League, finishing at the top of the table with 13 wins, four draws, and just one defeat. Their attacking prowess was evident as they scored 43 goals, while their solid defense conceded only 14 in 18 matches. This strong performance cements their status as one of the top football clubs in the country.
Heading into the FMF IDC, Rewa FC will indeed be under significant pressure to maintain their form and break their title drought. The Delta Tigers have had a mixed season so far, showing promise but falling short when it mattered most. After their early exit from the Digicel Fiji FACT in Labasa, where they struggled to carry the momentum from their OFC Champions League campaign, they managed to make it to the knockout stages of the Rooster Chicken/Scoop Ice Cream BOG. However, a tough 3-5 loss to Lautoka in the semi-finals in Suva highlighted their inability to capitalize on crucial moments.
Rewa’s squad, bolstered by players like Tevita Waranivalu, Patrick Joseph, Setareki Hughes, Samuela Kautoga, Epeli Valevou, Ivan Kumar, Madhwan Goundar and Solomon Islands internationals Leon Kofana, John Orobulu, and Stanton Alick.
Their campaign will kick off with high stakes as they face Nadroga FC in the tournament opener on Tuesday, October 15, at 1:30 pm.
On Wednesday, Rewa will face Nadi FC at 6 pm and the Delta Tigers’ final group stage clash will be on Thursday at 6 pm against defending champions RC Manubhai Ba FC.
