Placide Rwabuhihi scored a late match-winning goal as APR FC came from behind to beat Bugesera FC 2-1 in Nyamata on Sunday to maintain their lead in Rwanda Premier League. The game at Bugesera Stadium was a delight to watch as both teams exhibited quality football throughout the 90 minutes. After a series of early exchanges, Bugesera looked the brighter side as they utilized the pace of Nigerian import Chukwuma Odili who began to torment the APR back four. Bugesera broke the deadlock after 37 minutes through Mucyo Derrick who curled in a sublime free kick for the opener. APR goalkeeper Pierre Ishimwe had no chance as the ball landed at the back of the net. APR nearly responded within a few minutes but Bugesera defenders managed to block Yannick Bizimana’s effort and keep the army side at bay. Ben Mousa’s men dominated the ball possession in the second half and hence created numerous chances as they piled pressure on Bugesera seeking an equalizer. The league leaders had an advantage when Bugesera were reduced to ten men after Sadick Sulley was shown a straight red card for a hand ball in the 65th minute. Anicet Ishimwe restored parity for APR in the 69th minute with a fine finish after latching on to a pass from Gilbert Mugisha out of the penalty area. Bugesera held their nerves and defended gallantly until the 95th minute when Aime Placide headed home a Christian Ishimwe corner to give APR a 2-1 win. Other Games. Kiyovu Sports came from behind to beat relegation bound Espoir 2-1 in Rusizi. Tressor Kwizera gave Espoir the lead in the 17th minute before Erisa Ssekisambu and Bertrand Iradukunda netted in the 26th and 38th minutes respectively to hand Kiyovu the three maximum points. Elsewhere, at the Umuganda Stadium, Etincelles were at the party following a 5-1 humiliating victory over Gasogi United. Gedeon Bendeka, Sadjat Niyonkuru, Izabayo Daniel, Justin Kipasa, and Djabil Ishimwe were on target for the home team whereas Prosper Rugangazi netted a 93rd minute consolation for the visitors. Table 1. APR 52 points 2. Kiyovu 50 3. Rayon 46 4. AS Kigali 42 5. Police 39 6. Gasogi 37 7. Etincelles 37 8. Mukura VS 34 9. Gorilla FC 32 10. Musanze 30 11. Bugesera 28 12. Rwamagana City 26 13. Sunrise 25 14. Rutsiro 21 15. Marines 19 16. Espoir 14
