A SERIES of unconvincing wins for the reigning league champions APR finally culminated in their first defeat of the season at the hands of Gicumbi with Jean de Dieu Uwineza's lobe strike separating the two sides on Saturday at the Kigali regional stadium.
A SERIES of unconvincing wins for the reigning league champions APR finally culminated in their first defeat of the season at the hands of Gicumbi with Jean de Dieu Uwineza’s lobe strike separating the two sides on Saturday at the Kigali regional stadium.
The army side that has missed the core of their attack to injuries has resorted to playing cunning football rather than the game in its purest form as they are known to.
The absence of deep-rooted creative midfielder Andrew Buteera has cost APR an exhilarating brand of football at the hands of on-the-edge-of-the-seat performances that fans have hysterically endured until last weekend when many were seen dejectedly throwing their hands in the air every passing minute.
That the club they have come to cheer on for two decades now has adapted a style that makes them vulnerable at the hands of lowly oppositions is also a concern for the technical staff.
Head coach Ljubomir Petrovic admitted that, "It has been tough on us as a team with the injuries but we have to continue working hard to make sure we stay at the top of the table.”
Meanwhile, archrivals Rayon Sports failed to take full advantage of APR’s slip up as a stepping stone to the league summit after a 1-1 draw against Sunrise FC in Rwamagana on Sunday.
The Blues, who are yet to win a game since Andy Mfutila took over at the Nyanza-based side almost three weeks ago, sit in second position on the table with 18 points, two behind leaders APR.
Disappointed with the performance, Mfutila vowed to continue working on training a formidable side that will challenge for the title, regional dominance and a remarkable display in the Caf Confederation Cup.
AS Kigali also have 18 points and the same goal difference (+9) but the Blues have scored more goals (17) as compared to Eric Nshimiyimana’s side that has netted 12 times this season.
A 3-1 win over Etincelles has ensured AS Kigali is on the right track to being a title contender in what has always been a two-horse race.
Police ended a six-game winless streak with a much needed 1-0 triumph over Isonga, a result that excited head coach Andre Cassa Mbungo who said, "I am impressed with the way we played today. We want to build on this.”
Newly signed coach Godfrey Okoko finally clinched Mukura’s first win of the season with a hard earned 3-2 win over Amagaju.