Musanze coach Sosthene Habimana has warned rivals that his side is shifting from being a ‘punching bag’ to rather title contenders this season.

A shock 1-0 win over Rayon Sports at Ubworoherane Stadium on Saturday, October 14, saw the Musanze-based side go top of the table, with the current form, Habimana declared that his team is a serious contender for the league title.

ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Agblevor sinks Rayon Sports to send Musanze FC top

"We cannot start talking about winning the title this early but we are contenders for sure because we are at the top. But there is still a long way to go; we have played only eight game games and the remaining games will be even tougher,” Habimana said.

Musanze FC now lead the table with 16 points, two points clear of reigning champion APR FC who have played a game less.

But the club is not leading the table by surprise.

While in form Ghanaian striker Peter Agblevor has been a key leader in the dressing room, Habimana’s assistant Jean Baptiste Mugiraneza’s presence on the touchline has also brought positives to the team.

The players and the technical backroom have also been motivated by the fact that club President and businessman Placide Tuyishime is keeping his word by paying salaries and bonuses on time.

Musanze has so far won five matches, drawn once and lost once to title rivals APR.

Habimana said that the team has been performing well because each and every one at the club is playing their role well and he believes his men can keep the momentum if things continue as the same way.

"We have done well since the season started, but I want my players to keep the same spirit for the next matches. Today [Saturday] was an important win against one of the biggest teams in Rwanda. We need to continue to win as many matches as possible,” the former Rayon Sports striker noted.

"We must be ready for every game that is ahead of us. We have experienced players and a strong team that can beat anyone,” he added.

Musanze will visit Muhazi United, looking to extend their winning streak and ward off pressure from APR who sit second with 14 while Amagaju are in third place with 13 points and Kiyovu in fourth position with 12 points.