Defending champions Rewa FC are preparing to protect their Champion vs Champion crown with a revamped squad, and head coach Priyant Manu believes his side is showing encouraging signs ahead of the Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion first-leg clash against long-time rivals Labasa FC.
Manu confirmed the side has completed four weeks of preparation, even after losing a significant number of players during the recent transfer window.
“The preparation has been well. We’ve been training for the past four weeks and there are positive signs, even though we lost around 12 players. Some left during the transfer window, but we’ve brought in new boys and hopefully we put on a good show at CVC,” Manu said.
Rewa have lost their entire attacking unit, including Tevita Waranivalu, Setareki Hughes, John Alick, Ivan Kumar, Asivorosi Rabo, Delon Shankar and Josaia Sela, forcing the defending champions to rethink their attacking approach.
“It’s hard to replace them. We can defend, but if we don’t utilise our chances, we won’t be able to win,” he added.
With only seven to eight senior players remaining, Manu says youth players and new inclusions have responded well in training.
“The new boys, mostly our youth, have been doing well. It’s about how quickly they adapt so that come game day, everyone is on the same page.”
Manu also acknowledged the growing pressure from Rewa supporters as the side looks to defend the Champion vs Champion title.
“To win a trophy is easy, but to defend it is harder. The pressure is coming, but we’re focusing on the first game and aiming for a positive result.”
He highlighted the inclusion of Sitiveni Rakai and Solomon Islands import Norman Ngahu, saying their experience will add depth to the squad.
“It will be a new Rewa FC in terms of players, but the game style remains the same. The boys are adapting very well.”
Rewa FC take on Labasa FC in the Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion first leg this Sunday at 3pm at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori.
Looking ahead to Labasa, Manu expects a tough contest given the rivalry between the two sides.
“They’ve gone through a similar phase, losing players but bringing in experienced ones. With our history against Labasa, we know it will be a tough game.”
He urged fans to continue backing the team during the rebuilding phase.
“Keep supporting the boys. We are rebuilding, and the results will come.”