Defending champions Rewa FC have taken an early advantage in the Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion series after edging Labasa FC 1-0 in the first leg at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on Sunday.
Rewa struck early through Mosese Nabose, who scored the lone goal of the match in the 7th minute to give the Delta Tigers a crucial lead heading into the return leg.
Rewa had the chance to extend their advantage in the second half, but captain Patrick Joseph missed a penalty in the second half.
Labasa’s task became more difficult when defender Iowane Matanisga was shown a red card in the second half. He will now miss the second leg as the Babasiga Lions look to overturn the deficit.
Despite the narrow defeat, Labasa head coach Alvin Chand praised his players for their effort and discipline, especially after being reduced to 10 men.
“I’d like to thank my boys. We did really well though we lost. Even though we were 10 men, we maintained composure in our defensive state,” Chand said.
Chand admitted the difference came down to taking chances, with Rewa capitalising on their opportunity while Labasa failed to score.
“Goals matter in football. We could not score and Rewa got one chance and they scored,” he added.
However, Chand remains confident his side can bounce back, saying the two-leg format gives Labasa time to regroup and improve.
“It’s a two-leg tournament. We have one whole week to prepare and we have now seen the areas of improvement since our squad has gone through a lot of changes,” he said.
The Labasa coach also assured fans that the team will work hard to deliver a memorable performance in the second leg.
“I assure the fans that we will try to give a performance that is memorable for them,” Chand said.
Rewa FC head coach Priyant Manu was pleased with the victory, saying it was an important start to the tournament, especially with several key players missing.
“It’s a great start coming into this tournament. We were without so many players, but the boys stepped up when needed and a first win is very important for us,” Manu said.
Manu stressed the importance of finishing chances, admitting his side missed opportunities that could have sealed a bigger win.
“That is football. If you take your chances, you will win. We did take our chances, but I think we missed a few crucial goals,” he said.
He highlighted that Rewa is still building with new combinations, including players brought in from the club’s youth system and recruits from the Solomon Islands.
“We brought in the new boys, some from our youth system and some from Solomons. So they stood up when needed,” Manu said.
Manu added that the team will continue to work on ball management and finishing ahead of the return leg.
He also praised the supporters who turned up despite wet conditions, saying their presence boosted team morale.
The second and final leg will be played this Saturday at Subrail Park in Labasa at 1.30pm, where Rewa will only need a draw to retain the Champion vs Champion title, while Labasa must win to keep their hopes alive.
