Pepsi University Football League: Newcomers Mountains of the Moon Holds Kisubi in Stalemate

By: Kayiira Jackson 

The Pepsi University Football League witnessed its four fixture played on Saturday as debutants Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) marked their first appearance in the competition with a spirited 0–0 draw against the University of Kisubi (UNIK).

Despite being newcomers, the Fort Portal-based side showed little sign of nerves, putting up a resolute fight to earn a point away from home. The hosts had the brighter start, creating half chances in the opening exchanges, but their forwards failed to find the breakthrough.

UNIK goalkeeper Amos Kizito emerged as the standout performer of the evening, pulling off at least four crucial second-half saves to deny MMU, who piled on the pressure after the break. His heroics ensured the home side avoided defeat in front of their fans.

MMU tactician Nyakairu Solomon praised his team’s debut performance and expressed optimism about the campaign ahead.

“I am glad to be here today to witness our first match in the University Football League. We played well and managed a draw. We are going to work hand in hand with the University administration, and our target is to reach the quarter-finals,” said Solomon.

UNIK head coach Jessy Lukoki admitted his side squandered opportunities to take maximum points but remained upbeat about the bigger picture.

“As expected, the game ended in a draw. We had the upper hand to walk away with maximum points, but we didn’t utilise our chances in the first half. We are still building a system, trying to make the players understand how to play with and without the ball,” Lukoki noted.

He further pointed out the tactical challenge posed by the visitors.

“They came with an aerial approach, which is our disadvantage, but all in all, a point is not bad at the start,” he added.

The result leaves both teams optimistic as they begin their Group A journey, which also features defending champions Uganda Martyrs University and two-time winners Kampala University. Those two also played out a goalless draw in the league opener at Nakivubo last Thursday.

Action in the Pepsi University Football League continues on Sunday with Kampala International University taking on Mbarara University of Science and Technology at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

Line-ups:

• University of Kisubi (UNIK): Kizito Amos (GK), Senfuma Robert, Nsubuga John Vian, Ariho Jonathan, Opio Augustine, Mulindwa Geoffrey, Ssekiziyivu Alvin, Bakitwale Joel, Mulondo Vincent, Lumu Hamfrey, Ochom Emmanuel.
  Substitutes: Mumbere Joel, Mwesigwa William, Kibuuka Maurice, Odoi Livingstone, Kamya Baker, Bukenya Peter, Magezi John Reagan.
  Coach: Jessy Lukoki

• Mountains of the Moon (MMU):

• Luwaga Paddy (GK), Kirungi Ibrahim, Baguma Maurice, Ahebwa David, Raboni Trevor, Awamami Natuhumuza, Basiima Adolf, Musinguzi Moses, Mugisa Ibrahim, Okello Wilberforce, Businge Nathan.

• Substitutes: Joseph Walugembe (GK), Tumusiime Abdul, Saviour Vincent, Kaahwa Julius, Amagu Richard, Tumuhairwe M. Andrew, Mugabi Bendowel.
  Coach: Nyakeri Solomon.