The Rewa Rugby Union was overwhelmed with the support the side received during the Inkk Farebrother Trophy and Skipper Cup double-header match at Prince Charles Park last Saturday.
The Rewa team marked its return in the top flight after being relegated at the end of the 2019 season proved a force against the favourites Nadi eventually going down 25-15.
Hundreds of Rewa fans turned up at the venue to cheer the team which momentarily led the hosts 10-8 in the second spell before letting Nadi regain control with two quick converted tries. Rewa will face Suva this weekend before a bye in round three.
Rewa coach Ro Alifereti Doviverata said they would have to improve on their mistakes from the Nadi fixture during training this week.
Doviverata said they would need to maintain possession and cut back on the number of penalties.
“We are looking forward to our preparations for Suva,” the former national 7s and 15s skipper said.
“I thank the supporters for coming all the way from our villages in Rewa to Nadi to support the team and all those from the Western Division.
“I know it was a disappointing result but we are looking forward to our home game against Suva.”
