Pepsi University Football League: Nyeko Strike Hands Gulu a Dream Start as Lira Gets a Tough Welcome
By: Kayiira Jackson
Lira University had a bitter taste of life in the Pepsi University Football League after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Gulu University in their maiden outing on a chilly Wednesday evening in Gulu.
The decisive goal came in the 27th minute of the first half when a defensive mix-up in Lira’s backline gifted Nyeko Rogers a golden chance, which he clinically converted to send the home fans into jubilation.
The early exchanges revealed opening-day nerves from the Lira boys, though their defensive and midfield chemistry looked promising.
In the second half, the newcomers returned with renewed composure and piled pressure on the hosts. Their best chance arrived in the 84th minute when they won a free kick, expertly swung into the box. Towering defender Okello Solomon rose highest to nod the ball into the net, but the assistant referee’s flag cut short their celebrations for a controversial offside call.
Lira’s technical bench strongly protested, but skipper Okeng Emmanuel calmed his teammates, showing great leadership as the match resumed after a brief stoppage.
Despite the loss, Lira University impressed with their spirited display, signaling they will be a tough side to beat this season.
For Gulu, the victory marked a flying start in their quest to finally break into the knockout stages—a dream they have long pursued.
The win placed Gulu at the top of Group D with three points. It is a tightly contested pool that also includes last season’s losing finalists St. Lawrence University, two-time champions Makerere University Business School (MUBS), Lira University, and Muni University, whose match against MUBS was postponed following the death of their sports tutor.
Action continues on Thursday as Kumi University hosts inaugural champions Makerere University in Kumi.
Line-ups
Gulu University: Wassajja Hazaifah (GK), Murungi Robert, Oloya Peter Onen, Arora Aron, Iiko Kamilo Francis, Otim Richard, Rubangakene Atube, Bushra Mahjid (C), Epilo Charles, Ssenoga Derrick, Nyeko Rogers.
Substitutes: Lubangakene Erick, Rubangakene Ronald, Lacwech Joel, Komakech Comboni, Kibet Deo’s, Okot Junior Aron, Odokonyero Thomas.
Coach: Silas Paul Engesu.
Lira University: Ogiete John Baptist (GK), Ojaa Kembo, Ario Emmanuel, Okello Solomon, Nkwanga Samuel, Mubiru Aziz, Adoko Jacob, Obua Fred Baraka, Okeng Emmanuel (C), Kabugo Yahaya, Gidudu Philly.
Substitutes: Okello Anthony, Aber Elly, Ongom Samuel, Kimera Abudalah, Olum Ambrose, Ajani Jacob Capper, Lotyang Innocent.