Ugandan goalkeeper joins Rayon Sports in pursuit of success

Simon Tamale has joined Rayon Sports on a two year contract from Maroons FC

TRANSFERS Ugandan goalkeeper joins Rayon Sports in pursuit of success

Shafic Kiyaga 16:55 - 29.06.2023

He was among the top performers in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League last season, recording an impressive 12 clean sheets and earning seven Man of the Match awards.

Rwanda's football powerhouse, Rayon Sports, has secured the services of Ugandan goalkeeper Simon Tamale, marking a significant addition to their squad.

The shot-stopper has put pen to paper on a two-year contract, committing his future to the ambitious Rwandan club on a free transfer from Maroons FC.

Known for his commanding presence between the posts, Tamale's arrival is expected to provide a boost to Rayon Sports' goalkeeping department.

“We are delighted to confirm the signing of Simon Tamale. The goalkeeper will be a boost for the goalkeeping position in the coming period,” the Rwandan club said.

He was among the top performers in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League last season, recording an impressive 13 clean sheets and earning seven Man of the Match awards.

His remarkable performances caught the attention of football pundits, leading to his nomination in two categories for the 2022-2023 Player of the Year award, scheduled to be presented on July 6, 2023.

Tamale is in the running for the overall Player of the Year award alongside notable players like Vipers' Milton Karisa and SC Villa's Charles Bbaale.

Simon Tamale during his unveiling at Rayon Sports | Photo Credit: Rayon Sport Media

Already the Golden Glove winner, Tamale is a strong contender for the Best Goalkeeper award, where he faces competition from Hassan Matovu of Bright Stars and Nafian Alionzi of URA FC.

Rayon Sports' acquisition of Simon Tamale demonstrates the club's determination to strengthen their squad and maintain their dominance in Rwandan football.

He will compete against two other goalkeepers including Hakizimana Adolphe whose contract will expire in January 2024 and Hategekimana Bonheur who has one year remaining on his contract.

Rayon Sports are the reigning champions of the Peace Cup, the second most prestigious domestic title in Rwanda, claiming the title after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over arch-rivals APR FC in the final.

This success marked the club's 10th Peace Cup triumph and earned them a cash prize of Rwf 10 million (approximately 10,000 USD) from the Rwanda Football Federation.

Moreover, their victory secured them an automatic qualification spot for next year's CAF Confederation Cup.