Midfielder Ramzan Khan scored on his debut for Suva as they beat Rewa 1-0 in the Digicel Premier League opener at the ANZ Stadium, Suva, yesterday.

The defending DPL champions were without seasoned campaigners of Christopher Wasasala, Filipe Baravilala and Iosefo Verevou.

“The first game is always crucial,” said Suva coach, Babs Khan.

“It is about winning and defending the Digicel Premier League. We need to win this game to set a good platform.

“We’ve a lot of young boys but we had to make changes and step up our game.”

Khan also praised goalie Emori Ragata’s performance after Atunaisa Naucukidi suffered an injury.

“Emori has been always there for us, when we really needed him.”

What happened: Both teams took time to settle down and were cautious in their approach.

Rewa began to pressure the Suva defence with Ragata working tirelessly.

He stopped numerous attempts made by Rewa strikers Bruce and Setareki Hughes.

Rewa had a goal disallowed in the 30th minute after Anish Khem was ruled offside.

But Suva turned things around when Khan slammed in their lone goal.

Halftime: Suva 1-0 Rewa.

In the second half, Rewa came out looking for an equaliser but the Suva defence led by Ragata held them back.

Suva: Emori Ragata, Simione Nabenu, Remueru Tekiate, Ramzan Khan, Ravinesh Karan Singh, Joeli Ranitu, Waisake Navunigasau, Shahil Dave, Laisenia Naioko, Merrit Nand, Shazil Ali

Rewa: Simione Tamanisau, Peniame Drova, Inoke Turagalailai, Patrick Joseph, Kishan Sami, Anish Kem, Setareki Hughes, Bruce Hughes, Tevita Waranaivalu, Kavaia Rawaqa, Jale Dreloa.

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