Mukura Victory Sports head coach Francis Haringingo has tipped his players to keep momentum after stunning leaders APR 1-0 at Kigali Stadium on Thursday. The Huye-based side’s stunning start to the season hit a new high as they stretched their unbeaten run to 13 games in all competitions, including nine in Azam Rwanda Premier League. Midfielder Gael Duhayindavyi scored the lone goal from the spot in the first-half as Mukura battled to a narrow win over record 17-time champions. Haringingo believes that the confidence gained from winning against the champions could help his team to win the league title. He said: “It is still too early for title talk, I don’t want it to distract my players. We are only focused on approaching one game at a time. In the meantime, I can’t hide my satisfaction with the way we are going about our business so far this season.” Referee Claude Ishimwe showed no hesitation while pointing to the penalty spot after APR centre-back Herve Rugwiro hauled down Mukura striker Onesme Twizerimana in the box, which was well converted by Burundi-born Duhayindavyi in the 24th minute. With the win, Mukura closed in on leaders APR by one point, having picked 25 points from a possible 27 in their first nine league games this term. “Every player put in their best for the victory, it was a tough game.” The hard-fought win ended APR’s ten-game unbeaten run but also lifted Mukura to one point within of the army side while having three games in hand – against Police, Amagaju and Musanze – as they bid for their first league title since the club’s establishment in 1963. Regarded as the team with the best defence in the league, Mukura have only twice this season, thanks to the faultless partnership of central defenders Saidi Iragire and David Nshimiyimana. Meanwhile, league action continues Saturday with Gicumbi hosting Etincelles, AS Kigali take on Espoir at Kigali Stadium and Musanze face Rayon Sports at Ubworoherane Stadium, with Kirehe up against Sunrise at Kirehe grounds. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
