Rwanda Police stun NCPB in regional handball tourney

Police of Rwanda defeated National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) 32-29 as the 31st edition of East and Central Africa Club Championship entered Day Two yesterday at Nyayo Stadium.

Police, who are the defending champions, came from behind to sneak away with maximum points and boost their chances of retaining the title.

Jean Habimana, Gilbert Mutuyimana and Norbert Duteteriwacu of Police scored six goals each, while NCPB's Clinton Maiko led the way with six goals.

Despite a slow start that saw them trailing 5-2, Police powered their way back to the game after 10 minutes.

NCPB scored two quick goals in the opening five minutes of the match, before the defending champions crawled back and reduce parity for a 8-9 score in the first quarter.

Having exploited the weak areas of the Kenyans, Police drew level 12-12 draw with 10 minutes before halftime.

Then for the first time in the match, Police led 16-14, before enjoying a slim 17-16 lead at halftime.

On resumption for the second half, the Rwandese picked up from where they had left and added two quick goals to the bewilderment of the Kenyans.

With about 10 minutes into the quarter, Police were still leading 21-20 as the home team intensified its attacks.

At the third quarter, both teams were level at 23-23. NCPB, however, failed to extend the lead after missing two clear chances, which gifted the champions with the win.

Meanwhile, Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) women's club defeated Sparklers HC 42-21.