Ba recorded their first Vodafone Pre­mier League win after they pipped Rewa 1-0 at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori yesterday.

Striker Abu Zahid brilliantly beat Rewa goalkeeper Benito Waqavou inside the box to score the lone goal in the 31st minute.

What happened: It was a complete per­formance by the Men-in-Black after a dis­mal performance in the in the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Champions League earlier this month as they were in top gear to beat the hosts.

The match started with both sides cau­tious of each other as they played defen­sively. Rewa started well with their Bra­zilian captain Diego Maximo at sweeper’s position and did well for few minutes be­fore Ba regrouped and opted for attacking play which eventually resulted in the goal. Zahid along with Malakai Tiwa, Meli Co­dro, Avinesh Swamy and the two overseas imports Troy Watson and Nathan Brown played key roles for the side’s victory.

Rewa on the other hand had opportuni­ties to score but could not capitalize on it as they lacked finishers in the match. The probably the suspension of their striker Iosefo Verevou is also proving costly for the side as opportunities could not be turned at goal.

Experienced players with the likes of Taione Kerevanua, Epeli Saukuru, Se­tareki Hughes and Misaele Draunibaka worked overtime upfront but could not find the net.

Halftime: Ba 1-0 Rewa

Ba maintained composure in the second half but were denied as a result of Rewa’s Waqavou’s brilliant saves.

Comments: Ba manageress Sabrina Khan said: “Our morale was down after our per­formance in the Champions League and we worked hard to ensure that we lift our performance in the Premier League.

Rewa coach Marika Rodu said:

“We have played tough games in the open­ing round but we will step-up from here onwards.”

– Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj