Kigali Sharks has sealed the third place in the national Rugby League after beating Muhanga Thunders 16-14 in an incredibly tense day 9 encounter held Saturday, March 11, at Red Cross Rugby ground in Kacyiru. With just two games left to end the season, the hosts knew a victory was all they need to ensure a top three finish on the league table. The energy and intensity of the game summed up how much each of the pair was eager to win to position themselves among the three teams that are normally awarded at the end of the season. The game proved to be a entertaining one given the passion showed from both ends but it was home side Kigali Sharks who looked superior. Muhanga Thunders came into the game in a positive mood after earning morale boosting result from Rusizi District where they beat Resilience 16-14 points last weekend. The first half ended with a 12-03 lead in favor of Kigali Sharks. The Thunders came into the second half knowing that it was a do or die game, as they had to double their efforts to make a comeback. Despite an extraordinary second half performance, luck was not by the visitors’ side who narrowly lost the match 17-12 at the hands of Muhanga Thunders. It was an important victory that Sharks skipper Martin Rukundakuvuga excitedly said “it means a lot for us in this league. We didn’t start this season very well for some reason, but now it's closing on a positive note.” “Today's victory costed a lot of efforts in the first half, because we knew that the second half would not be easy, considering that Muhanga Thunders are young players compared to us,” he added. Rukundakuvuga admits his side is already out of the title race which is between Lion de Fer and 1000 Hills, but remains positive that the win can keep them in the top three. “Yes, winning the league seems to be impossible for us, but we have to do our best to stay in the top three,” he said. In another tie hosts Kamonyi Pumas were demolished at home to 1000 Hills 74-03 as they remain winless in the league with zero points. League leaders Lion de Fer, won their game by forfeit after their opponent Resilience were not able to show up at the stadium. League Table 1. Lion de Fer – 29 points 2. Thousand Hills – 24 points 3. Kigali Sharks – 17 points 4. Muhanga Thunders – 16 points 5. Resilience – 08 points 6. Kamonyi Pumas – 00 points
