SC Villa 0-1 KCCA
Substitute Sulaimoni Akinyemi scored seven minutes to time as KCCA stuttering Azam Uganda Premier League (UPL) title charge sparked back to life with a slim 1-0 win over rivals SC Villa at Nakivubo.
KCCA lead the standings with 55 points, five more than second placed Vipers who were held to a barren stalemate by JMC Hippos in Kakindu with two games remaining.
The first half saw no difference in both sides although they should have scored through half chances created.
Karim Ndugwa tamely shot at Benjamin Ochan inside the first minute after a mistake by Martin Mpuuga while Derrick Nsibambi headed over the bar after 22 minutes although he looked better placed to meet Habib Kavuma’s cross.
Earlier, Paul Mucureezi had shot direct at goalie Nicholas Sebwato after chest controlling Denis Okot cross from the right.
The best chance of the half fell to Nsibambi who failed to keep his shot low when he received a well lofted pass from Ceaser Okhuti.
After recess, SC Villa dominated in terms of creating opportunities but were lethargic in front of goal.
Not even the introduction of Martin Kizza for Mike Sserumaga and AbdulKarim Kasule for Ndugwa did make a change for the Blues.
At the other end, Mike Mutebi’s changes paid off as two substitutes Hakim Ssenkumba and Akinyemi combined to give the Kasasiro a win.
KCCA can now afford to lose one of their remaining two games but still win the league in case Vipers stutter again.
The ten time league champions don’t return to action until May 24 when they visit rivals Express at Wankulukuku, a stadium they have lost four points this season.
SC Villa stay 10th on the 16 team log with 36 points but have five games in hand over the log leaders.
SC Villa XI:
Nicholas Ssebwato (GK), Paul Mbowa, Isaac Muleme, Henry Katongole, Jonathan Mugabi (C), Godfrey Lwesibawa, Abel Eturude, Mike Sserumaga (Martin Kizza), Karim Ndugwa (AbdulKarim Kasule), Ambrose Kirya and
KCCA XI:
Benjamin Ochan (GK), Denis Okot (C), Habib Kavuma, Martin Mpuuga, Sakka Mpiima (Petit Wanok), Ivan Ntege, Paul Mucureezi (Hakim Senkumba), Jackson Nunda, Muzamiru Mutyaba, Ceaser Okhuti (Sulaimon Akinyemi) and Derrick Nsibambi.