East African University Rwanda (EAUR) stunned Gisagara in a thrilling four-set match of Round 2 in the Rwanda Volleyball National League, marking their second consecutive win and raising the stakes for the 2024-25 season.
On Saturday, October 26, EAUR overcame the odds to defeat the 2023 Rwanda Volleyball National League champions, winning the match 3-1.
Despite entering the match as the underdog, the determined EAUR’s ambitions became clear in the first set, hinting that the game would be close.
EAUR claimed the first set 26-24, but Gisagara, led by Yakan Laurence, quickly responded and leveled the match at 1-1 with another nail-biting 27-25 set.
EAUR came back with renewed determination in the third set, clinching it 25-22 thanks to an effective connection between setter Kayiranga and left attacker Jean Paul Nshuti.
The sidelines buzzed with rivalry as volleyball legend Vincent Dusabimana ‘Gasongo’ squared off against his former national teammate and captain, Yakan Guma Laurence.
Gisagara fought hard to regain their pride, winning the fourth set by any means necessary, but EAUR remained resolute.
Libero Jules Niyigena made important sprawl and dive saves against powerful spikes from Malinga and Niyogisubizo to keep EAUR in the game.
Again, the set was quite close, but EAUR came out on top, 25-23 and Vincent Dusabimana’s volleyball coaching career took a significant step forward following this hard fought win.
This is a notable first victory for EAUR in their second year. Following a 3-1 victory against RP Ngoma College, with this remarkable win over Gisagara, the Remera-based university has established itself in the league and makes the competition for playoff slots quite intense.
EAUR is currently in second place, trailing the top-ranked Police VC, who maintained their lead after a commendable 3-0 victory over the defending champions APR on Friday night.
