By: Geoffrey Mugabi
On Wednesday evening, Soltilo Bright Stars edged UPDF FC 2-1 in the matchday thirteen of the Startimes Uganda Premier League.
Warren Bule and Ashiraf Mulindi netted for the home side, while Samuel Ssekamate scored the consolation for the visitors.
In an end-to-end game, Bright Stars scored in the early minutes, but the goal that seemed legitimate was cancelled by the assistant referee, who called an offside.
A few minutes later, Nelson Senkatuka’s header was tapped out by Mulindi at close range.
The visitors nearly took the lead, but Shamulan Kamya denied them twice in quick succession.
Bright Stars took the lead in the 31st minute through Warren Bule.
Bunjo delivered a well-taken corner kick that found an unmarked Bule at the far post, and the latter smartly headed the ball into the net.
One minute later, the home side doubled their lead, causing trouble for UPDF.
Mulindi received a through ball, showcasing his exceptional dribbling skills as he left the UPDF defenders and goalkeeper in his wake, before smashing the ball into the back of the net.
At the last minute of the first stanza, Senkatuka handled the ball inside the box, and the referee awarded the penalty to the visitors.
Samuel Ssekamate stepped up and sent goalkeeper Shamulan Kamya the wrong way, pulling one back for UPDF.
In the second half, UPDF dominated possession but failed to capitalize on their chances, including a last-minute glorious opportunity that was poorly executed.
Bright Stars held on to secure their second victory of the season, with both wins coming on home soil.
The hard-fought win leaves Soltilo Bright Stars at the bottom of the table with 9 points, but they are now level on points with the other teams in the relegation zone.
UPDF FC remains 7th on the summit with 17 points from 13 games.
In their next fixtures, Soltilo Bright Stars will visit Express FC on January 2nd, 2025, while UPDF FC will host Vipers SC the following day.
