By: Kayiira Jackson
The two time Pepsi University Football League champions Uganda Martyrs University have avenged against Nkumba University, the side that beat them last season at the quarter final stage.
The immediate defending champions, Nkumba University were eliminated out of the league on a 4-3 goal aggregates following a two all draw in the second leg hosted on Tuesday at Nkozi University Grounds.
To share the spoils in an epic encounter, Defender; Mutebi Patrick and Sunny Kaija netted for UMU but were answered through Kavuma Abbey and Tasumba Buruhani for Nkumba.
All the four goals came in the first stanza of the encounter that was watched by many.
Mutebi Patrick, arguably the best centre back so far in the league, handed the hosts a lead as early as in the first minute with a free header, convert a ball well laid by Joseph Kayondo from a corner kick.
Nkumba replied through Kavuma Abbey ‘s header in the 25th minute, thanks to Bamanya Derrick teasing overhead pass from the center arch.
After conceding the equalizer, UMU mounted pressure onto the visitors, with Kayondo laying in relentless crosses and in the 35th minute, Nkumba gave in and Sunny Kaija with a diving header reclaimed the hosts lead, thanks to another assist from Kayondo Joseph.
In the last minute of the first stanza, from the right flank, Nkumba’s right full back, Tasumba Buruhani launched a strike that hit in the top corner of the net of the far post for Nkumba to level again.
The second stanza had no much pressure as the hosts cooled the game to protect the point they had in the hands. Some going scoring chances were created but none was taken away by both sides.
For starters, UMU won the first leg 2-1 at Nkumba and a draw of any kind was enough for them to go through.
At this same stage, it’s where Nkumba beat them 2-1 on aggregates and eventually Nkumba won the last season’s title.
The league shall commence tomorrow (Wednesday) at Arena of Vision where Ndejje University shall be hosting St Lawrence University.
Uganda Martyrs University lineup– Akena Pius (GK), Kayondo Joseph, Mutebi Patrick, Kitabalwa Robert ©, Tumusiime Emmanuel, Jjunga Nicolas, Ogwang Francis, Wijo Taban, Sunny Kaija, Agamile Ivan, Calvin Peter Emayu.
Substitutes – Okoboi Saddam (GK), Masumbuko Vincent, Cheing Per Jiek, Ogwang Emma, Kidega Godfrey, Obed Giu Ronald, Aguma Wesley.
Coach – Eric Kisuze.
Nkumba University lineup – Obwana John Andrew (GK), Lubega Ismael ©, Buruhani Tasumba, Mukasa Henry, Nabaasa James, Bamanya Derrick, Komori Joshua, Mukiibi Saadi, Ssewankambo John Kennedy, Nsubuga Joel, Kavuma Abbey.
Substitutes – Wabomba Calvin, Acram Juma, Kiyemba Fahad, Mwesigwa John, Karungi Jerry, Kagimu Marvin, Bwiruka Solomon.
Coach– Dr. Sulaiman Bbosa.
