SC Villa exhibited remarkable resilience, overcoming an early setback against Maroons FC at Muteesa II Stadium – Wankulukuku on matchday 16 of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
Hakim Kiwanuka set the early pace, but it was Amaku Fred of Maroons who found the net first in the 7th minute.
Undeterred, SC Villa earned a free-kick in the 11th minute, only to be denied by Maroons’ goalkeeper Sebwalunnyo.
The Jogoos intensified their attack, with Kafumbe drawing a foul and a subsequent free-kick that tested Sebwalunnyo. Despite numerous chances, Kiwanuka and Kafumbe couldn’t convert.
As the first half concluded with the Jogoos trailing, halftime provided an opportunity for reflection and strategy adjustments.
Returning with renewed vigor, SC Villa pressed forward in the second half. Kakande was fouled near the box, leading to a blocked shot by Kafumbe. A deflected shot by Abas Kyeyune kept Maroons’ goalkeeper busy.
In the 60th minute, the breakthrough came as Patrick Jonah Kakande leveled the score, thanks to Abas’ donkey work. Substitutions brought fresh energy, with Reagan Mpande making his debut, replacing Hakim Kiwanuka.
Abas calmly beat his markers, setting up a scoring pace for Kakande in the 71st minute, who didn’t disappoint. Meddie Kibirige received a yellow card for a foul on Amaku in the 77th minute.
In the final stretch, manager Dusan made strategic substitutions, introducing David Owori, Onzima Peter, and UPL debutant Mukisa Simon. The Jogoos successfully held their ground, securing a well-deserved victory at full-time.
The day’s man of the match spoke to this website and noted:
“I am happy for the team’s performance today and getting two goals to my name. We conceded early, but we had to pull up our socks and work for the points. We shift our focus to our next game as we look forward to keeping the winning form intact.”
Today’s win shifts the Jogoos to fourth place on the log with 29 points. Next up will be a visit to Hoima-based Kitara FC on 9th February 2024.
