The match was decided on a penalty shoot-out after normal and extra-time could not produce a goal for either side and it was veteran Lorima Dau who became a hero for Rewa by firing home the winning penalty to make it 4-3.
The result means the Delta Tigers have written themselves into the record books with their fifth consecutive title – a feat achieved by no other side in the history of the tournament.
President Pranil Singh says the latest triumph is one of the most memorable for the club as it has come on home turf.
“It’s the biggest and best victory we could have achieved and is a proud moment for all of Rewa,” he says.
“Based on past results, a lot of people doubted Rewa could win at home but we have proved them wrong. The secret to winning was the commitment and dedication of the players.”
Suva put in a strong showing and looked the better side in the first spell. Captain Esava Naqeleca was the standout figure as his side created many opportunities but Rewa came back strongly in the second half and were only denied by a solid performance from Suva goalkeeper Emori Ragata.
Suva skipper Naqeleca, named player of the tournament, believes his charges were unfortunate to lose in such a manner but has faith in their ability to bounce back from the disappointment.
“I think we played well in the final but it is anyone’s game in a penalty shoot-out and I would like to congratulate Rewa,” he says. “We are a very young side and, if we work on our fitness and combinations, we should be okay.”
Rewa player-coach Marika Rodu is delighted to have defended the title yet again and says the victory will be used as inspiration for upcoming events.
“Coming through in this tournament was not an easy task,” he says. “We came out of a pool of death and lost to Labasa but that only made us stronger, we grew from strength to strength.
“Before the penalty shoot-out I stressed to the players that this was anyone’s game. I told them to stay calm and not change their minds when taking the penalties.”
The champions cannot afford to toast their success for too long as they will be in action again in October to defend yet another title, this time the Courts Inter District Championship. Since bagging the Battle of the Giants trophy again last season, Rewa have won the 2010 Inter District Championship, 2011 Pillay Garments Champions League and, more recently, the 2011 Vodafone Fiji FACT.
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