LABASA produced a commanding display to defeat Rewa 4-2 in their final pool match of the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT at Subrail Park yesterday, securing a place in the semi-finals.
Needing victory to keep their campaign alive, the hosts started brightly and were rewarded early when Melvin Mani was brought down inside the penalty area by Rewa defender Semi Nabenu.
Experienced defender Lekima Gonerau calmly converted the spot kick to hand Labasa a 1-0 lead.
The Babasiga Lions doubled their advantage just 13 minutes into the contest when promising youngster Jovesa Uqe found the back of the net, putting Rewa under immense pressure.
Rewa fought their way back into the match after a defensive mix-up from Labasa resulted in an own goal by Iliesa Lino.
However, the hosts responded almost immediately, with Ashneel Raju finishing off a well-worked corner delivered by Christopher Wasasala to restore Labasa’s two-goal cushion.
Nabenu made amends for his earlier mistake by heading home Rewa’s second goal before halftime, leaving Labasa ahead 3-2 at the break.
The turning point came midway through the second half when Rewa was awarded a penalty after substitute Rex Naime handled the ball on the goal line and was sent off by referee Torika Delai. Brazilian playmaker Lucas Santos stepped up, but his penalty was brilliantly saved by Labasa goalkeeper Jitoko Vulava.
Inspired by the crucial save, Labasa pressed forward despite being reduced to 10 men, with Jone Lalagavesi sealing the victory with a fourth goal.
Rewa pushed hard for a comeback but failed to break down Labasa’s resilient defence as the hosts celebrated a memorable semi-final berth.
