Maroons stun SC Villa with an early goal, hold on for a 1-0 win

In a thrilling Uganda Premier League encounter at Luzira, Maroons FC pulled off a stunning 1-0 upset against SC Villa on Saturday evening.

Ivan Mayanja’s lightning-fast goal, scored just seconds after kickoff, proved to be the difference as the Jailers held on to secure a narrow but crucial victory.

Mayanja’s strike, finishing off Baden Mujahid’s cross, set the tone for a tense and physical match.

The game was marked by controversy, with two players sent off before halftime – Maroons goalkeeper Simon Tamale and Villa defender Geoffrey Lubangakene were both shown red cards in the 39th minute for unsporting conduct.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Maroons held firm, with substitute goalkeeper Hassan Matovu making crucial saves to preserve the lead.

The win lifts Maroons to 12 points, moving them up to eighth position, while SC Villa remains on 17 points, failing to seize the opportunity to go top of the table.

The result keeps the UPL title race tight, with Villa now level on points with Vipers and KCCA, who have played fewer games.