Africa-Press – Rwanda. Police FC head coach Vincent Mashami has heaped praise on his players for their character after holding APR to a hard fought 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Peace Cup semifinals on Tuesday, April 15, at Kigali Pele Stadium.
Both teams were locked in a barren draw until Bosco Ruboneka broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute through a penalty before Lague Byiringiro set up Chukwuma Odili for an equalizer in the 90th minute.
Mashami admits they faced a tough team in APR FC but applauded his charges for sticking to his plan and responding quickly when they were 1-0 down.
“The match was fair on both sides though it was not easy. Our mission was to get a goal which we achieved. Despite not winning, my players played to my strategy,” Mashami told journalists in a post-match interview.
“We knew APR’s strength and as such, we worked hard to keep them at bay. There is still another 90 minutes for us to get the job done.”
Mashami further stressed that the target is to retain the Peace Cup trophy and go back to continental competition no matter what threat APR FC may pose on them.
“Our aim is to win the Peace Cup and I believe that is the same motive for APR, Rayon and Mukura as well. All the four teams left are strong.”
APR will host Police FC in the return leg at Kigali Pele Stadium on Tuesday, April 22.
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