SHOCK:The champions lost to Isonga midweek

Defending champions APR enter a tight title duel with a challenging home game against AS Kigali in the Primus National Football League this afternoon at Nyamirambo stadium.While APR have not managed to close gap at the top, Ernie Brandts’ boys have been unable to close in their advantage over leaders Police and Mukura who are clung to their coat-tails since the start of the second leg this month.The military side who were shocked by youthful side Isonga to a 1-2 loss mid this week must pull up a good game against AS Kigali to remain in title contention.APR Dutch coach Ernie Brandts said yesterday, "I am demanding total commitment from my players to win off tomorrow’s (today) game,”"We must score more goals and get back on track for the league title. We lost concentration against Isonga but we should fight to beat AS Kigali,” added Brandts, who will miss defender Mbuyu Twite to suspension, and Jean Claude Ndoli to a knee injury.Though they are placed in the relegation zone, AS Kigali might add more salt in the pain of defeat for the military side if their clinical and football display goes as planned by Coach Casa Mbongo.Mbongo, who misses striker Ndikumana Bodo said, "It is going to be a tough game because my team have played three matches in one week and more to that, i will miss important players due to suspensions.”"We will do our best to stop APR and I am optimistic looking forward for the best,” added Casa.Elsewhere SC Kiyovu returns back to local league after being eliminated from Orange Confederation Cup competition by Simba of Tanzania with a home date against Marines at Mumena stadium.In Rusizi, Mukura will take automatic control of the PNFL standings if they grab maximum points against Espoir this afternoon.With current leaders Police playing on Sunday, a win for Mukura will stretch lead at the top of the table with 33 points in 15 matches played this season.On Sunday, Isonga will host Etincelles at Nyamirambo stadium, Amagaju play away to Nyanza with Police rocking horns against Rayon Sports in a second leg derby due to be played at Amahoro stadium.