We made a remarkable debut in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League with an exhilarating match against Mbarara City on Friday, September 15, 2023. In an eagerly anticipated clash, we emerged victorious, with Joseph Dhata’s solitary goal securing a perfect start to our journey in the league.
License Issues Delay Kick-off
The game had an unusual start, with a delay of 30 minutes due to license issues faced by Mbarara City. However, this delay did not deter the well-prepared NEC squad, who displayed unwavering determination from the very first minute.
First Half Highlights:
The early moments of the game saw Okocha and Ssebaggala combining brilliantly on the left wing, creating opportunities in the final third. However, they couldn’t find the back of the net. The pressure continued to mount on Mbarara City as Ssebaggala was fouled as he penetrated into the final third, earning a free-kick. Thembo’s attempt, unfortunately, sailed over the crossbar.
We relentlessly pushed forward, with Dhata delivering a beautiful cross met by Kayanja’s header, which narrowly missed the target. Kayanja, in quick transitions, demonstrated his skill, setting up Ssebaggala, but the shot went wide. In the dying minutes of the first half, Dhata’s corner met Acire’s head, seemingly destined for the far corner, but Mugalu’s header sent it over the bar.
The first half concluded without a goal, but we showcased our determination and attacking prowess.
Half-time Substitution:
At the start of the second half, Owiny returned the captain’s armband to Kavuma Marvin, who replaced Kimwero Shamir. This tactical adjustment proved crucial and added a missing dimension to the game.
Second Half Drama:
The entrance of Captain Kavuma Marvin and the withdrawal of Shamir saw Thembo take on the role of a single pivot in midfield, providing defensive stability while enabling Kayanja to be more dynamic up front. This partnership paid dividends as continued to apply pressure.
In the 51st minute, Okocha delivered a precise cross that found Dhata, who skillfully headed the ball into the net, opening our score chart in the league.
The remainder of the second half was marked by relentless pressure at both ends. Kavuma almost set up Mugalu for a second goal, but he couldn’t control the ball in time. Ssebaggala tried his luck with a left-footed shot, but it was comfortably handled by the opposing goalkeeper.
Mbarara City pushed hard for an equalizer, with Kitegenyi coming close but narrowly missing the target. Despite their efforts, our defense, led by Kiirya, held firm.
Kiirya, who faced challenges and received treatment on two occasions, managed to maintain a clean sheet. The referee’s final whistle marked our memorable debut in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, with Dhata’s lone strike securing the crucial three points on Matchday 1.
Team News:
Fourteen players featured in our first-ever StarTimes Uganda Premier League match:
Starting XI:
1. Kiirya Samson
2. Kelvin Barni
3. Owinnyi Ronald
4. John Paul Acire
5. Kimwero Shamiru
6. Dhata Joseph
7. Thembo Ibrahim
8. Kayanja Brian
9. Mugalu Allan
10. Okocha Rashid
11. Ssebaggala Enock
Used Substitutes:
1. Kavuma Marvin
2. Ssesaazi Sulaiman
3. Angello Ssempijja
Unused Substitutes:
1. Odongo Gideon
2. Wasswa Kasirye
3. Okiria Michael
4. Ssekayi Farouq
What’s Next:
In our next fixture, we will host Busoga United at our new home, MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo, in the same league.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates and follow NEC FC’s journey in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League!