USSSA Elite Games: Ten-Man Bukedea Sees no Importance of Kitende in Semis, Sends them Back Home for Proper Revision

By Kayiira Jackson 

East Africa champions Bukedea Comprehensive School produced a heroic performance to eliminate giants St Mary’s Boarding Secondary School Kitende 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in normal time, in a pulsating encounter witnessed by a mammoth crowd in Bombo.

The much-anticipated clash lived up to its billing as Bukedea struck first through Deus Niwaha, who powered home a stunning header into the far top corner. The goal came courtesy of a perfectly delivered corner kick from the left flank by Savour Jaksita, sending the Bukedea faithful into wild celebrations.

Kitende responded swiftly. Just five minutes later, Elvis Apakrwoth restored parity with a composed tap-in that rippled the roof of the net, setting up a fierce contest between the two school football powerhouses.

The match took a dramatic twist moments later when Bukedea forward Patrick Ssenkusu received his second booking and was sent off. Reduced to ten men, the Eastern Region giants were forced to dig deep for the remainder of the contest. Despite relentless pressure from Kitende’s attacking force, Bukedea showed resilience and tactical discipline to hold on and force the game into penalties.

In the decisive shootout, Bukedea held their nerve, converting four of their spot kicks, while Kitende faltered and managed only one successful strike.

The victory sees Bukedea advance to the semifinals alongside Uganda Martyrs High School, Fortportal Secondary School, and Mentor Secondary School, with the semifinal showdowns slated for tomorrow morning.

It was a night of grit, drama, and sheer determination — and Bukedea Comprehensive proved that even with a numerical disadvantage, champions always find a way.