In an outstanding opening to the Extra Premier League season, defending champions Rewa FC demonstrated their prowess by defeating Tailevu Naitasiri FC with a resounding 4-0 victory. This commanding performance not only solidified Rewa’s position as a formidable team but also set an encouraging tone for the remainder of their campaign.
The match commenced with Patrick Joseph scoring the first goal in the 30th minute, igniting the enthusiasm of the Rewa supporters. Just ten minutes later, Mosese Nabose doubled their lead by netting a goal in the 40th minute, reflecting Rewa’s dominance as they went into halftime with a solid advantage.
The second half showcased Rewa’s continued offensive pressure, with Semi Matalau adding to the tally by scoring in the 35th minute after the break. Norman Ngahu from Solomon swiftly followed suit just one minute later, effectively sealing an emphatic win for the home side.
Rewa’s coach, Priyant Manu, expressed his pride and gratitude for the team’s performance. He reflected on the professionalism and composure shown throughout the match, stating, “I think we showed today what Rewa is all about—a calm, professional performance. Despite the opposition’s hype on social media all week, we stayed humble, kept calm, and delivered a much better performance.”
Manu recognized areas for further development, specifically in managing the midfield and minimizing offsides, while acknowledging the integration of many young players into the squad as part of a rebuilding process. He also spoke positively about a new youth quota policy that promises to enhance the future of Fijian football. “Our message to the players was simple: take it game by game. We have 18 games to play, and we treat each as a final,” he added, highlighting the importance of gaining exposure for the younger talents.
On the opposing side, Tailevu Naitasiri FC coach Shabneel Prasad acknowledged his team’s preparation but pointed to a significant setback that hindered their performance. He noted that three key players were unavailable due to a technical error, affecting their competitiveness on the field. Despite the disappointment, Prasad is optimistic about bouncing back in the next match.
With this remarkable start, Rewa FC is poised to continue their pursuit of the title, aiming to build on this professional display while maintaining focus throughout the season. The fans are encouraged to keep rallying behind the team as they embark on this fruitful journey.
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