It was a thrilling encounter on Saturday, May 16, as Etincelles FC came from behind to defeat Marines FC 3-2 in an entertaining Rubavu derby in the BK Pro League, boosting their hopes of avoiding relegation.

The match began cautiously, but Etincelles, determined to secure victory in front of their home fans, broke the deadlock in the 12th minute through Rodrigue Mwinyi.

Marines responded as Moise Nyarugabo leveled the score in the 33rd minute.

Marines continued to push forward and eventually took the lead in the 59th minute when Fabio Ndikumana found the back of the net. However, Etincelles responded immediately, with Sadjati Niyonkuru equalizing just a minute later to make it 2-2.

Abdu Beken Bizimana’s side dominated possession in the second half as they pushed for a winning goal. Their persistence finally paid off when youngster Djabilu Ishimwe scored the decisive goal seven minutes before stoppage time, sealing all three points for Etincelles.

The victory moved Etincelles up to 15th place with 31 points, while Marines dropped to eighth position on 41 points.

Elsewhere, SC Kiyovu played out a 1-1 draw against fellow relegation battlers AS Muhanga at Kigali Pelé Stadium.

Mukura also suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Bugesera FC at Kamena Stadium.