Bugabula continued their strong start in this year's MTN Busoga Masaza Cup with a 2-1 win over a determined Bunhole Bunhanhumba in Sunday’s Mawembe Hill Group match played at Kamuli Park Playground.
The home side, led by golden boot contender Majid Kazindula, took the lead in the 37th minute when he capitalized on a loose ball from teammate Collins Wakowera, volleying home.
However, the visitors responded quickly after the break. Rashid Mugere levelled the score in the 47th minute with a clever chip over Bugabula’s advancing goalkeeper, Reagan Mudusu.
Despite several defensive lapses, Bunhole Bunhanhumba managed to stay in the contest, thanks to their exceptional goalkeeper, Nasser Kalulu, who made several saves.
However, the decisive moment came in the 75th minute when Aaron Birikadde unleashed a thunderous strike from about 25 yards out, leaving Kalulu helpless as Bugabula secured their second campaign win.
With this victory, Bugabula tops the group standings with six points, while Bunhole Bunhanhumba sits in second place with three points. Bukono remains without a point after the first round.
Reflecting on the match, Bugabula coach Ronald Lukungu said; "It was a tense match against a very good team that competed well against us in the first half, but our calm approach in the second half helped us to bag home three points. It’s a pleasure to be among the teams leading a group before the interval."
Bunhole Bunhanhumba's coach, Ali Kasolo, expressed optimism despite the loss. "My players did not have a chance of training together in the camp. But we hope to give Bugabula a good game in the return fixture next weekend. I pledge to the team patron to improve on the team's support."
The action resumes next weekend with a series of matches in the second round.