REWA Football Association began its 2021 Digicel Women’s Super League campaign on a high note after beating neighbours Tailevu Naitasiri 2-0 in the opening round at the ANZ Stadium in Suva yesterday.
The win was also a historic first for new coach and Rewa and national frontman Usaia Tadu, who led the women in red to a top notch finish.
“You always want to start strongly,” the Rewa veteran said.
“It was a good game and I thank the Almighty for the strength and the win.”
Tadu said they had areas to address before the next round.
“We got the win, but there are plenty of work-ons and we will look to that before taking on Nadroga.”
Tailevu-Naitasiri coach Elvis Gounder said it was tough luck not to have their way in the first match, but were looking forward to the next game to redeem themselves.
“We were unlucky and we lost to the better team,” Gounder said.
“The players will go back to reset themselves and prepare for our next game.”
Rewa midfielder Lora Bukalidi scored the opener in the 30th minute with fellow defender Naomi Waqanidrola sealing the deal with a second half penalty in the 55th minute.
Rewa will host Nadroga while Tailevu Naitasiri will face Ba next weekend.
Rewa Women’s FC: 1. Merevesi Ofakimalino 19. Maca Ralagi 6. Litia Tadulala 20. Naomi Waqanidrola 15. Sekola Waqanidrola 10. Avisaki Toro 5.Joyce Naceva 9. Timaima Vuniyayawa 4. Lora Bukalidi 2.Karala Vakayaru. Substitutes: 17. Raijeli Raikoso 12. Taivata Tikoisuva 22. Rebecca Philip 11.Tuliana Rakuro 7. Mereoni Tinaimakubuna 13. Akisi Soroavoli 14. Emily Tamani 16. Raijeli Lewasoqevula Tailevu-Naitasiri FC: 1.Wati Tokalau 7. Maria Veronika 11. Emali Rokociri 8. Ana Nakauvukivuki 5. Losana Bainivalu 10. Viniana Buke 20. Tabua Likumotovai 6. Seruwaia Tunakula 19. Anushil Lal 3. Adi Bakaniceva 9. Penelope Pickering. Substitutes: 18. Leba Lute 2. Timaima Ana 16. Salacieli Senitobo 12. Antika Singh 4. Eseta Vonotabua
