NEC FC Reclaims Table Lead with Historic Victory Over SC Villa.
Two goals from Mucureezi, who broke the deadlock, and Cromwell, who ensured we regained our lead, were enough to outscore the visiting SC Villa.
This victory marked our first-ever win against the famous Jogoos in a very high-intensity game on Friday evening at the MTN Omondi Stadium Lugogo.This win has propelled us to 22 points collected from just 10 games, averaging 2.2 points per game, as our second season in the league continues to look impressive.
What happened:
We came into the match at MTN Omondi Stadium Lugogo with the wind of change on our sails, as Mbalangu made strategic tweaks to our starting lineup. Kiyemba stepped in at right-back for the suspended Atendele, who had picked up one too many yellow cards. Meanwhile, Ajo replaced Marvin Kavuma, sidelined by a last-minute fitness issue. The rest of the squad remained unchanged, setting the stage for what promised to be an intense showdown.From the kickoff, our intentions were clear: score early and set the pace. The whistle had barely sounded when we charged down the field, nearly putting the ball in the net within the first minute. However, SC Villa’s defense was alert, forcing us to settle for a corner. Throughout the first half, our attacks were persistent; Ajo tested the goalkeeper on several occasions, but his shots either missed the mark or rattled the woodwork, leaving the scoreline frustratingly at zero.Despite the flurry of chances, the first half ended without a breakthrough, with both teams exchanging pressure but unable to find that one decisive moment. SC Villa’s defense stood firm, countering our offensive with resilience.
The second half:
Mucureezi broke the deadlock in the 57th minute with a powerful shot from just outside the area.Gideon Odongo delivered a free kick, which SC Villa’s defender cleared; it only fell to Ssebaggala, setting up Mucureezi, who was well positioned to fire home at the near post, sending wild cheers from the Diehards both in the stands and at the technical bench.
The visitors, with a beautiful run through the middle of the park, were able to level matters through Kiwanuka, with Patrick Kakande turning provider. This further escalated the game’s tension as each side pushed for a winner.
With four minutes to the 90th minute, Mucureezi delivered a well-weighted corner into the box. With SC Villa failing to clear the ball, Gideon Odongo set up Cromwel, who made no mistake and fired past the helpless Wokorach in goal. This goal restored our lead and meant we walked away with all three points, leapfrogging Vipers.
What it means:
We go top of the table with 22 points, two points ahead of the second-placed Vipers, who have a game in hand.
What’s next:
Our next trip is a short one to Nakivubo Stadium where we visit URA on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
Team News;
Four substitutions were used as Rwothomio, Mugalu, Okocha and Kimwero replaced Ajo, Mutyaba, Jarieko and Ssebaggala.