REG VC defeated Police VC in four sets (25-22, 26-24, 20-25, 25-22) in Saturday’s Game 3 to force the Rwanda National Volleyball League finals series into a fourth game. Benon Mugisha’s side avoided a series sweep by denying Police the victory that would have secured the best-of-five title. REG entered the Petit Stade looking energized by the return of hitter Sam Engwau, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury suffered in Game 1. His comeback lifted the team’s morale, particularly outside hitter Nicholas Matui, who was recently named the best player in his position at the 2026 African Men’s Volleyball Club Championship. Matui showcased his quality in the opening set with relentless attacking play, helping REG claim it 25-22. Police, aiming to move one step closer to the title, responded strongly in the second set. However, with the score tied at 24-24, unexpected attacks from Elphas Makuto, set up by Brain Melly, went long without a touch, handing REG a crucial set point before they closed the set 26-24. Police bounced back in the third set with improved blocking. Coach Fred Musoni introduced Emmanuel Mugisha as a middle blocker to strengthen the defense, while attacker Elphas Makuto and captain Eric Kwizera led the offensive charge as Police took the set 25-20. REG remained composed in the fourth set and executed their game plan effectively, sealing the match with another 25-22 victory. “We had time to rest and that’s why this victory came home. It also worked in my favor because I had time to recover from my injury. Going forward, we are going to study our opponents well and see if we can make Game 4 ours as well,” Engwau told Times Sport. Elsewhere, APR WVC were crowned champions of the 2025/26 Rwanda National Volleyball League women’s category after defeating Kepler in a thrilling five-set final (22-25, 25-17, 25-20, 16-25, 15-10). The victory marked a strong comeback for APR after losing last season’s title to Police WVC. In the bronze medal playoffs, Police WVC defeated Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) 3-2 (18-25, 25-14, 25-21, 22-25, 15-9) in a dramatic Game 3 tie-breaker. Game 4 of the men’s finals series will be played on Saturday, May 16.
