APR revives title ambitions

PNFL results APR 2-0 AS KigaliSC Kiyovu 1-2 MarinesEspoir 0-2 MukuraTodayIsonga vs Etincelles (Stade de Kigali)Police vs Rayon Sports (Stade Amahoro)Nyanza vs Amagaju (Nyanza)Two second half goals from Papy Faty and St. Preux Lionnel put APR back into the title race of this season’s Primus National Football League.Defending champions had a blur first half against AS Kigali but the pivotal role played by both Burundian and Thailand internationals helped Dutch Ernie Brandts sail back into the league rhythm. They have now leapfrogged Rayon Sport into third position with 27 points though the latter have a game this afternoon against Police. Southern Province giants Mukura thumped Espoir in Rusizi to take control of Primus league standings with 33 points, three ahead of rivals Police.SC Kiyovu whose continental campaign was halted by Simba of Tanzania suffered a set back in their league title as they lost to old rivals Marines 1-2 at home, Mumena stadium.Action continues this afternoon as rivals Police host Rayon Sport in a derby set to be hosted at Amahoro stadium. In the first leg, Police suffered a 1-3 loss to Rayon Sport at the same venue.And after a 0-2 loss to relegation battling side Nyanza, Coach Goran Kopunovic and his team have vowed to win the match whatsoever.“We cant afford to lose this game. We have to keep our title ambitions bright and to do so, we must beat Rayon Sport,” added the Police tactician whose side stand second with 30 points on the league’s ladderOn the other hand, Coach Jean Marie Ntagwabira who will miss three of his senior players Papy Kamanzi, Iddy Nshimiyimana and Leandre Sekamana all to suspension will face stern test against resurgent Police who have a full fit squad.“Though am missing some players, the available players must do their very best to beat Police. We need a win to close gap on Mukura who have now taken the leadership of the table,” added Ntagwabira whose side is now in fourth place with 25 points.In other matches on card include a date between Isonga and Etincelles at Nyamirambo stadium and a hostility clash between Nyanza and Amagaju.