Scrapping through to the final with a 6-5 penalty shootout win over Labasa, Rewa have won the Vodafone Fiji FACT after defeating Nadi 1-0 at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori this weekend.
Samuela Kautoga was the hero in Sunday’s final, scoring the match’s only goal in the 32nd minute with a powerful header off Madhwan Goundar’s free kick and earning the Player of the Tournament award.
The Fiji national team defender was overjoyed to see his team’s hard work pay off and dedicated his award to Rewa’s supporters.
“It is after six years that I have won a tournament with a district team and this is so special to me,” he said.
“I want to dedicate the win to my family and fans of the Rewa team.”
“I’m so happy to help Rewa win and I’m looking forward to guiding Rewa to more victories.”
Rewa coach Marika Rodu was also overjoyed with the success of the team and very proud to see the talent of one of his players acknowledged.
“Kautoga is a man of the moment for us and he is a very good player. His experience helped us to win,” Rodu said.
“We are proud of winning the first Fiji FA tournament of the year.
“Now that we’ve won the FACT our focus shifts to the Vodafone Premier League, INKK Mobile Battle of the Giants tournament and the Courts Inter-District Championship.
“We aim to get more trophies in our cabinet – this is just the start.”
Fiji Football Association CEO Mohammed Yusuf congratulated Rewa for their hard-earned victory, acknowledging the development and improvement of football played in the domestic competition over the years.
“Over the years we have seen the tournament grow in stature since first played in 1991,” he said.
“I congratulate Rewa for winning the title on home soil after so many years and also to Nadi for having a good go against the hosts.
“The fans came out in numbers to show support to their teams and showed district pride. I am sure they have enjoyed the competitive football displayed by all the teams.”