Rewa commended for good game
SUVA might have recorded a nail-biting 24-17 win its game against Rewa but the host’s received the high praise from both coaches.
Regarded as the game of flair and good defence, Suva coach Sakaraia Labalaba said Rewa took them to the wire and a half time talk, the tactical changes in the second half and the experience of top players saved the Capital City side from its second defeat of the season.
It was also the playmakers show with Suva’s Enele Malele’s two tries and the boots of Rewa’s Sailasa Aka were the talk of the game at Burebasaga District School ground yesterday.
Rewa’s biggest enemy yesterday was the lineout even though they matched Suva on attack and with a strong forward pack with Rewa holding their own against a much experience side.
“We thank Rewa for the tough game today (yesterday), they really tested our game pattern as we build on introducing our new players to the Skipper competition system,” Labalaba said.
“Top teams should not take Rewa lightly because any wrong move they can put you down.”
Rewa coach Ro Alivereti Doviverata said he was happy for his players show against a champion team such as Suva.
“We have one week to rest and work on our mistakes before we resume,” the former national player said.
“Our young players really stood today’s (yesterday’s) test and I commend them.
Rewa matched Suva’s point in the first half 10-all, in the second half the two sides were tied 17-all in the last four minutes before Malele sneaked his way through the tight Rewa defence in the dying minutes of the game.
Taito Rauluni booked Rewa’s first point with Aka’s success conversion. Aka booted another three points before Sireli Biumaiwai steamrolled his way into the tryline.
The visitors’ points were through the tries of Mosese Nasilasila, Savenaca Uluibau, Malele’s two tries and also his two conversions.