In a final series that has kept handball fans on the edge of their seats, APR HC and Police HC continue to produce thrilling, high-quality action, with each game adding another chapter to one of Rwanda's fiercest rivalries. APR HC completed a remarkable comeback in the Rwanda Men's Handball Championship finals by defeating Police HC 27-24 in Game 4, leveling the best-of-five series at 2-2 and forcing a decisive Game 5. After keeping their title hopes alive with a Game 3 victory on Saturday, APR carried that momentum into Tuesday's clash. The military side took a 15-12 lead into halftime after a tightly contested first half in which both teams exchanged goals before APR gradually seized control. ALSO READ: APR HC beat Police HC in Game 3 to keep title hopes alive Unlike Game 3, where APR dominated from the opening whistle, Game 4 remained evenly balanced for much of the contest. However, APR's disciplined defense and clinical execution in key moments enabled them to maintain their advantage until the final buzzer. APR's balanced attacking display was spearheaded by Alexis Nshimiyimana, who scored seven goals. Viateur Rwamanywa Umuhire added four, while captain Jean Paul Muhawenayo contributed three. For Police HC, André Akayezu netted six goals, while Samuel Mbesutunguwe led the team's scoring with seven. Their efforts, however, were not enough to stop APR from forcing a decisive fifth game. ALSO READ: Police HC edge closer to title defense after Game 2 win over APR HC APR captain Jean Paul Muhawenayo credited the victory to his team's tactical discipline and determination. It was a very good match. Police and APR have faced each other for many years, so every player knows the strengths and weaknesses of the other. We had to rely on tactics, movement and hard work to win. Having recovered from a 2-0 deficit in the finals, Muhawenayo believes the momentum has shifted in APR's favor heading into the decisive encounter. Winning two matches this weekend has brought us back into the series. We're ready for the final game and we'll do everything possible to win the championship, he said. Despite the defeat, Police HC captain Peter Kwisanga insisted his team remains fully focused on retaining the title. We've played several demanding matches, so this break is important for recovery. Now everyone is focused because the next game is the final. He described the decisive clash as the biggest match of the season. It's a game of life or death. There's nothing to hold back. Everyone has to give everything and perform at the highest level. Police HC head coach Antoine Ntabanganyimana admitted that costly turnovers proved decisive. We lost too many possessions. At this level, against an opponent like APR, that is unforgivable. We'll use the break to recover and come back ready because the next match is a must-win. With the series now tied at 2-2, the Rwanda Men's Handball Championship will be decided in a winner-takes-all Game 5, where one final victory will separate the two rivals and crown the national champions. Game 5, Tuesday, June 30. APR HC VS POLICE HC - 5:00 PM at Petit Stade
