Epeli Valevou showcased an impressive performance for Rewa, scoring two goals and contributing to another as the team defeated Labasa 3-0 in the first leg of the Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion at Subrail Park. The match marked the beginning of an exciting series as both teams welcomed new players during the preseason transfer window, enhancing their line-ups.
Labasa’s defense featured Kavaia Rawaqa and Gabrieli Matanisiga, while Rewa strengthened their midfield with Edwin Sahayam and added Ratu Apenisa Anare to their attack. Despite the absence of head coach Ravneel Pratap, who was unavailable, the team was led by Alvin Chandra, a teacher and youth coach from Labasa Muslim College, which added a different dynamic to the on-field strategy.
In a tense opening, veteran striker Christopher Wasasala’s early goal was disallowed due to an offside call, setting the tone for a competitive match. Rewa applied pressure, and after several near misses, they finally took the lead with an own goal from Labasa’s Lekima Gonerau, giving Valevou the credit for the pivotal 30th-minute strike.
The first half saw a missed opportunity from Melvin Mani, who shot over an open goal, while Rewa’s Iowane Matanisiga received the first yellow card of the match. In the second half, adjustments from Labasa, including substitutions of veteran players Taniela Waqa and Rusiate Doidoi, did not hold back Valevou, who seized the moment by scoring his second goal in the 73rd minute, followed quickly by his third just two minutes later.
As Rewa heads into the second leg with a commanding 3-0 lead, Labasa faces the daunting challenge of needing to win by four goals to claim the championship. The upcoming match promises to be an electrifying contest as Labasa seeks redemption and Rewa aims to secure their victory.
Overall, the match highlighted Rewa’s dominance and strategic prowess, leaving fans optimistic for the thrilling conclusion of this two-legged series.
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