Gorilla FC midfielder Victor Murdah and Bugesera FC striker Sadick Sulley have paid tributes to their former side Espoir FC whose 12-year journey in Rwanda Premier League came to a shocking end on Sunday after a 2-1 defeat at home to title chasers Rayon Sports.

The duo enjoyed a successful spell together with the Rusizi-based club during the 2020/2021 season under coach Moussa Gatera before switching to Gorilla and Bugesera respectively.

Sulley at the time netted goals and was named club&039;s player of the season while Murdah was also instrumental in their midfield.

Murdah, who sees Espoir as his ‘second home’, stressed that he was shocked to learn that his former club will play second division football.

"I am really disappointed. This is where my international experience began so Espoir remains my home. I am really shocked." The Cameroonian told Times Sport.

"My wish is that they come back as soon as possible but it will not be so easy."

Meanwhile, Sulley, who joined Espoir from Ghana Premier League side Legon Cities, also indicated that the news about the club’s relegation has become too difficult to digest.

"They [Espoir] gave me a good international platform and I would always be grateful. It is a great team and I know they will come back soon to the Premier League,"he said.

"I am sad they suffered relegation."

Espoir said goodbye to the topflight league over the weekend after 12 seasons. Their fate was sealed as their 17 points from 27 games are not enough to avoid relegation even if they win all the remaining three games.