Extra Supermarket Rewa FC has ended a 15-year wait for the Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion (CVC) title with a 1-0 victory over Extra Supermarket Labasa FC in front of a sold-out crowd at Ratu Cakobau Park.
Substitute Mosese Nabose emerged as the hero, netting the decisive goal in injury time to secure a 4-0 aggregate victory after Rewa’s dominant 3-0 first-leg performance at Subrail Park. The emotional moment was made even more special as Nabose dedicated his goal and the championship title to his newborn child, who was born earlier in the day.
Labasa entered the second leg with a mission to overturn the deficit and showed a marked improvement in their defensive structure. The Babasiga Lions held Rewa scoreless for much of the match, frustrating the home side with disciplined play and resilience at the back. However, Rewa’s persistence finally paid off in the dying moments.
In stoppage time, Nabose found himself in a one-on-one situation with Labasa’s goalkeeper. With composure and precision, he calmly flicked the ball into the net, sending the Rewa faithful into celebration.
The goal carried added significance for Nabose, whose wife gave birth earlier in the day. Overcome with emotion, the striker dedicated the winning goal and the CVC title to his newborn child.
“It’s a moment I’ll never forget. To score the goal that wins the title for Rewa and to do it on the same day my child was born—this is truly special,” said Nabose after the match.
Rewa set the tone for the series with a commanding 3-0 win in the first leg at Subrail Park. An own goal by Lekima Gonerau and a brace from Epeli Valevou gave the Delta Tigers a comfortable advantage heading into the second leg.
Despite Labasa’s efforts to stage a comeback, Rewa maintained control and sealed the championship with Nabose’s late winner.
This victory marks Rewa’s first CVC title since 2010, ending a 15-year drought. The Delta Tigers have now added another major trophy to their growing list of achievements, solidifying their place among Fiji’s top football clubs.
Head coach Rodeck Singh praised his team’s determination and resilience, emphasizing that the victory was a testament to their hard work and dedication.
“This is a special moment for Rewa. The boys showed great character throughout both legs. We knew Labasa would come strong in the second match, but we stayed patient and got the goal when it mattered most,” said Singh.
The Delta Tigers walked away with $5,000 prize money, while Labasa received $2,500 as the runner-up.
