Pepsi University Football League: Kumi Torments Makerere With Back-to-Back Wins
By: Kayiira Jackson
Kumi University once again proved to be a tough nut for Makerere University, edging the inaugural league winners 1-0 in a spirited Pepsi University Football League clash played on Thursday at the Kumi grounds.
The hosts grabbed the decisive moment just three minutes after the restart when Saidi Muthir rose highest to head home a well-curled corner from Mohammed Jumbe in the 48th minute.
The opening half had produced little to separate the two sides, with most of the action locked in the midfield. But Kumi returned from the break with renewed energy and immediately piled pressure on the visitors, forcing the breakthrough.
Substitute Omega Kisale nearly doubled the lead in the 67th minute after breaking free one-on-one with Makerere custodian Timothy Kaziba, only to sky his effort over the bar. Makerere thought they had a lifeline moments later when Wasswa Herbert was brought down in the small box, but the referee waved play on, much to their frustration.
Muthir’s header ultimately stood as the winner, handing Kumi back-to-back home victories over Makerere after last season’s identical 1-0 result. The win lifted Kumi University to three points in Group E, level with Ndejje University, who also won their tie against Uganda Christian University (UCU).
Group E remains tightly contested, featuring Ndejje University, newcomers King Censor University, IUIU, UCU, Kumi University, and Makerere University.
The action continues Friday as Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) hosts King Censor University in Mbale.
Lineups:
Kumi University – Amoni Eddy (GK),Muge Cuthert, Saidi Muthir, Osama Ramathan, Waibi Rigan, Katende Yazid, Odeke Semu Epaja, Nyongesa Christopher ©, Okapel Joel Milton, Jumbe Mohamed, Walwasa Nathan.
Substitutes– Omongin Joel, Amude Gabriel, Mubiru Ukasha, Isabirye Ramathan, Oosan Charles, Olupot Simon Peter, Omega Kisale Paul, Mujasi Alvin, Okiror Charles.
Coach: Okwakol Eli
Makerere University – Kaziba Timothy (GK),Ssaka Rodney, Ddungu Nicolas, Bujingo Kenneth, Murungi Kelly, Muteekanga Frank, Katsirabo Goodman, Agaba Anthlem, Ekwong Emmanuel ©,Nuwahereza James, Wejuli Joel.
Substitutes– Ssebiranda George (GK),Kajubi Ian, Wasswa Herbert, Male Musa, Dhougar Emmanuel, Atuhurira Samuel, Kusaasira Saif.
Head Coach – Kasozi William.