Express FC who were on a four game win-less run recovered just in time, not only to break the eight year jinx without beating KCCA FC at Wankulukuku but also end the Lugogo side’s unbeaten run in a five goal thriller on Tuesday evening in the StarTimes Premier League.
The hosts took the lead at the soggy Muteesa II stadium when Michael Birungi converted a Badru Nsubuga cross in the 15th minute and ensured the first half ended in the home side’s favour.
In the second half, Allan Kyambadde returned to torment his former paymasters when he restored parity for Mike Mutebi’s team that looked struggling on the day against an invigorated Express FC.
However, subsequent man of the match and Congolese striker Eric Kambale restored the Red Eagles’ lead with a 68th minute strike but the hosts took the game beyond reach only four minutes later through a Disan Galiwango goal.
A corner won by Birungi proved priceless as its resultant kick was curled straight to the goal for KCCA FC goalkeeper Charles Lukwago to try to get hold of the ball only to throw it down past the goal line for the centre referee to point to the centre arch for Express’ third goal.
There were wild celebrations at Wankulukuku as the Red Eagles looked settled well in the driving seat following the third goal.
The visitors however pulled a goal back to make it 3-2 from youngster Allan Okello but this was not enough to save them from the raging Express FC.
Reaction
Red Eagles’ coach Kefa Kisala said despite being win-less in the last four games, his boys kept strong and it finally paid off when they hit where it hurts most against KCCA.
“When you lose games, you have to mentor players to be mentally strong and that is what happened. We played a better organised side but the players believed in themselves and were able to lift themselves up,”Kisala said.
He added the win was a big boost as they visit SC Villa in their next game.
KCCA FC coach Mike Mutebi was full of praises for Express for using the chances they created well during the game.
He however slammed his defenders for a dismal display at Wankulukuku.
“Right from the goalkeeper, the defending was rubbish,”Mutebi said before turning to his forwards who he said didn’t create as much chances at goal as expected.
The win left Express FC in 8th position on 16 points whereas KCCA stayed on top of the 16 team log on 24 points.
StarTimes Premier League results
Express 3-2 KCCA FC
Ndejje University FC 1-1 SC Villa
BUL FC 1-0 Onduparaka FC
Paidha Black Angles SC 0-1 Kirinya Jinja
Mbarara City FC 1-0 Tooro United FC
Maroons FC 2-1 Nyamityobora FC
