The University of Tourism and Business Studies (UTB) and giants Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) have stepped one foot into the playoffs finals of this year’s women volleyball league after their respective Game 1 victories on Thursday.

Debutants UTB saw off former champions APR in straight sets 25-20 25-13 and 25-17, while seven-time reigning champions RRA also dominated KVC 25-05 25-11 and 25-17. Both games were held at Kimisagara Youth Centre.

UTB coach Sylvester Mbanza is thrilled by his side’s debut in the playoff games, but he knows there is still work to do if they are to end RRA dominance.

"Considering that this is our debut in playoffs; it is very promising. We played a fantastic game, and we were the better side overall. The victory was well-deserved.”

"Whether we make it to the finals or not, RRA are still the favourites. There is still work to do before we can dream of halting their dominance,” he said.

Game 2 fixtures of the best-of-three semi-finals are set for Sunday at Amahoro Stadium.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com