Captain Kolinio Sivoki scored a stunning free-kick in the second half, leading Navua to a 2-1 win over Rewa in the second Super Premier semifinal of the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Rewa faced a significant challenge before the match, missing their top scorer John Urobulu due to a visa issue. The Navua team, coached by Saiyad Ali, executed effective counter-attacks, resulting in Usaia Tilivarua being fouled in the box, earning a penalty. However, Jared Rongosulia’s penalty attempt was impressively saved by Rewa’s goalkeeper Jolame Domonikibau.
Veteran player Samuela Kautoga put Rewa ahead just before halftime with a well-placed shot. However, Navua responded powerfully in the second half. Simione Damuni equalized in the 47th minute after confusion among Rewa’s defenders.
Sivoki then delivered the decisive moment in the 74th minute with a trademark free-kick that hit the back of the net, leaving the Rewa players and fans shocked. Despite Rewa’s aggressive pursuit for an equalizer, Navua’s defense, marshaled by Sivoki alongside goalkeeper Jovilisi Borisi, Arami Manumanubai, and Filipe Baravilala, held firm, securing their place in the final.
Navua will face Labasa in the championship match scheduled for 3 PM.
The starting lineups for the teams were as follows:
Extra Supermarket Rewa: Jolame Domonikibau, Ivan Kumar, Leon Kofana, Patrick Joseph, Setareki Hughes, Madhwan Goundar, Tevita Waranaivalu (C), Epeli Valevou, Stanton Alick, Samuela Kautoga, Iowane Matanisiga.
Stratum Construction/Zeg Investment Navua: Jovilisi Borisi, Simione Damuni, Jared Rongosulia, Usaia Tilivarua, Thomas Dunn, Arami Manumanubai, Jackson Wale, Vinal Prasad, Kolinio Sivoki (C), Filipe Baravilala, Zainal Ali.