National midfielder Tevita Waranaivalu’s timely equalizer ensured Rewa secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Suva in the Digicel Fiji Premier League Round 11 clash at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori.
Both teams showcased new signings and took to the field with the intent to win. The Delta Tigers aimed for a victory to surpass Labasa on the table while Suva sought a triumph to escape the relegation zone.
Rewa featured Solomon Islander John Orobulu in their starting lineup, while Suva’s Simione Nabenu also started, with new signing Jaygray Sipakana entering the field in the second half.
Following a goalless first half, the visitors broke the deadlock in the 51st minute. Bruce Hughes skillfully maneuvered past three Rewa players and unleashed a powerful shot that was parried by goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia. The ball, however, fell to Mohammed Naizal, who capitalized with a simple tap-in.
Rewa applied relentless pressure, leading to Waranaivalu’s well-executed strike in the 70th minute, which beat experienced Suva stopper Akuila Mateisuva.
Both teams battled hard for a winning goal, but excellent defensive play from both sides prevented either from claiming all three points in the torrid encounter.
Despite the draw, Extra Supermarket Rewa remains atop the standings with 24 points, level with Labasa but boasting a superior goal difference of +14 compared to Labasa’s +7. Flick Hygiene Suva has climbed to the eighth spot with 9 points, matching Nasinu but with a better goal difference.