Pepsi University Football League: SLAU Defy Red Card to Crush MUBS

By: Kayiira Jackson

Ten-man St. Lawrence University (SLAU) put up a spirited performance to overcome Makerere University Business School (MUBS) 3–1 in an electrifying Pepsi University Football League encounter played on Thursday evening.

Despite going a man down in the second half, the three-time losing finalists showcased resilience and class to seal all three points and rise to the top of Group D.

SLAU drew first blood in the 10th minute through captain Ziraba Ronnie, who capitalized on MUBS’ defensive mix-up. A poorly cleared cross from Okello Allan fell kindly to Ziraba, who calmly slotted home from close range to give the hosts the lead.

Ziraba almost doubled the advantage four minutes later, but his effort was brilliantly blocked by the MUBS backline.

The visitors hit back on the half-hour mark when skipper Brian Katete produced a moment of individual brilliance — dancing past three defenders before curling a low effort into the far corner to make it 1–1, arguably the goal of the match.

After the break, Coach Davis Nnono’s men regained control, and in the 61st minute, Kembo Osman Arafat restored SLAU’s lead with a simple header. MUBS players protested the goal, claiming offside, but the referee stood firm on his decision.

SLAU’s evening took a twist in the 71st minute when Munanira Derrick was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge, reducing them to ten men.

However, the hosts showed great composure and were rewarded nine minutes later when substitute Mugerwa Lawrence converted a 79th-minute penalty to seal a memorable 3–1 victory.

Speaking after the match, Coach Davis Nnono applauded his players’ fighting spirit.

“The red card could have changed everything, but the boys showed character. We played with heart and discipline, and that made the difference,” he said.

The win sees St. Lawrence University go top of Group D with three points, while MUBS sit bottom after the opening fixture.

Action in the Pepsi University Football League continues on Friday, as defending champions Nkumba University face ISBAT University — both sides seeking redemption after opening-day defeats.

Lineups

St. Lawrence University (SLAU)
Starting XI: Kateete Muhammad (GK), Alele Ambrose, Ssentongo Ivan, Ojok Joshua, Kamya Dickson, Ziraba Ronnie (C), Okello James Ivan, Ssekyanzi Patrick, Munanira Derrick, Kembo Osman Arafat, Ssemanda Collins.
Substitutes: Mutabaazi Peter, Mulema Pius, Mugerwa Lawrence, Agaba Michael, Sharafali Mukiibi, Maliamungu Godwill Taban, Oula Emmanuel.
Coach: Davis Nnono

Makerere University Business School (MUBS)

Starting XI: Matovu Stewart (GK), Lasu Thomas Lomoro, Turyamuhaki Deus, Okot Pedro Odero, Kalema Edrine, Otuke Derrick, Wakaisuka Trevor, Sudhir Bin Saidi, Ssempijja Andrew, Mbabazi Worrick, Brian Katete.
Substitutes: Murungi Jonathan, Yokole Talibu, Kyagulanyi Timothy, Biyinzika Joshua, Ssentamu Joshua.
Coach: Dudu Bosco