Innocent Media rose highest to power home a pinpoint delivery from Wandera and hand NEC FC a vital 1-0 victory away at BUL in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
A well-worked goal early in the first half proved enough as we defended resolutely to secure all three points and strengthen our position in the table.
Early breakthrough
NEC started brightly and took the lead in the 13th minute through a moment of quality. Wandera delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, and Innocent Media rose highest in the box to head home powerfully.
Kawawa had already shown his threat moments earlier with a great shot just off target following a slick transition through midfield, set up by Seremba.
Defending the lead
BUL looked to respond and created a dangerous moment in the 21st minute, but Ssebwalunnyo was equal to a free-kick from the edge of the box, collecting cleanly to preserve the advantage.
The hosts pushed forward as the half wore on, but we remained organised. In first-half stoppage time, Buule was booked for a foul in our half as the we went into the break with a narrow but deserved 1-0 lead.
Second-half control and substitutions
We made a double change at half-time, with Muhamed Kagawa and Allan Mugalu introduced in place of Rashid Kawawa and Dina Makenga, freshening up the attack and midfield.
The second period saw more balanced play as BUL searched for an equaliser. We responded with further changes in the 61st minute, bringing on Hudson Mbalire and Marvin Kavuma for Joseph Dhata and goalscorer Innocent Media to bolster the defence and midfield.
Despite late pressure from the hosts, NEC held firm. Four minutes of added time were signalled, but the Diehards managed the game to see out the win.
Linqsoft Aluminium Man of the Match
Innocent Media was named both the UPL and Linqsoft Aluminum Man of the Match for his decisive header and all-round contribution a fully deserved award for the match-winner.
A valuable three points on the road for NEC FC.