Captain Kolinio Sivoki scored a stunning free-kick in the second half to lead Navua to a 2-1 victory 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 as their leading scorer John Urobulu was absent due to a visa issue. Navua, coached by Saiyad Ali, executed counter-attacks effectively, including a play where Usaia Tilivarua was fouled in the penalty area. However, Jared Rongosulia’s penalty attempt was saved by Rewa goalkeeper Jolame Domonikibau.
Veteran player Samuela Kautoga gave Rewa the lead just before halftime with a solid finish. In the second half, Navua came out strong, equalizing in the 47th minute through Simione Damuni following a defensive mix-up by Rewa. Sivoki then took the spotlight in the 74th minute, scoring a free-kick that rocketed into the top corner, leaving the Rewa players and their fans in shock.
Despite a strong push from Rewa to find an equalizer, the Navua defense, led by Sivoki, goalkeeper Jovilisi Borisi, Arami Manumanubai, and Filipe Baravilala, successfully kept Rewa at bay, securing their place in the grand final. Navua will face Labasa in the final match scheduled for 3 PM.
The starting teams for the match were:
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.