Labasa’s hopes to clinch the Pillay Garments Champions Versus Champions (CVC) title were dashed yesterday as they faced Rewa in a tense match that ended in a goalless draw at Subrail Park. Despite a powerful home crowd and an all-out effort in the final moments, Labasa couldn’t find the back of the net, leaving them with a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, which ultimately secured Rewa the championship.
After the match, Labasa’s Alvin Chand expressed his disappointment with a simple, “Not today,” highlighting the team’s frustration with their inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities throughout the series. Rewa, on the other hand, celebrated their victory, having successfully kept two clean sheets across both matches.
Rewa’s coach, Priyant Manu, acknowledged the divine guidance his team received throughout the tournament. “First of all, I would like to thank God Almighty for His guidance throughout the CVC series and for His blessings upon the team,” he stated. Manu explained that his team approached the match with a clear strategy: a draw was sufficient for them to win the title, which they executed efficiently.
Manu reflected on the game, noting the importance of their solid defensive play while admitting that his players missed several chances to score. “If you get chances, you have to finish them. If not, then you have to defend your box, and we defended really well,” he remarked. His team’s commitment to their defensive structure was apparent, especially during the final minutes of the game when they faced intense pressure from Labasa.
Despite facing challenges prior to the match, including a grueling journey by boat for some players, Manu was pleased with his team’s performance. “It’s tough travelling by boat on the same day of the game, but we did well,” he commented.
As Labasa pushed hard for a last-minute goal, they dominated possession but were unable to break through Rewa’s resolute defence. Manu praised key players, including Patrick and Joseph Kawaiya Rawanga, and newcomer Kelvin from the Solomon Islands for their strong contributions to the team’s defensive efforts.
In the end, Rewa’s disciplined approach and strategic execution allowed them to secure the CVC title, setting a precedent for their solid performance in both legs of the tournament. This victory not only highlights Rewa’s resilience but also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football, where every match holds the potential for surprise and triumph.
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