FUFA Drum Tournament
Saturday result
Buganda 1-0 Lango
Onduparaka FC forward Viane Ssekajugo scored the only important goal as defending champions Buganda province started off FUFA Drum tournament title defense with a slim 1-0 home win over resilient Lango province in the opening game of the 2019 edition on Saturday at Mukono Bishops SSS, Mukono.
The last year’s most valuable player scored in the 6th minute of the well attended game that was graced by the Lango cultural leader as well as Buganda’s prince Jjunju Kiweewa and princess Katrina Sangalyambogo, who represented the kingdom’s Katikiro (Premier) Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga.
Lango, whose fans out numbered and silenced the home supporters, had several and better chances to rue. The hosts have to thank man of the match Joel Mutakubwa for his three remarkable saves.
The Tooro United and current most in-form premier league goal keeper denied Petit Wanock, Robert Achai and exciting Allan Okello as the David Obua’s side surged for an equaliser after the break. Lango beat Buganda 3-1 at the same venue last season with goals from Dickens Okwir and Petit Wanock while Allan Kayiwa scoring Buganda’s consolation and this the best way to avenge.
The visitors still turned the hungrier side on the evening if not for their wastefulness. With the FUFA Drum tournament meant to celebrate ancestry, Lango fans who in massive numbers, endured over 330kms journey, really enjoyed the moment –supporting their side from first to final whistle. “We are going to prepare for the next game. I am happy with the performance despite the loss; we were unlucky,” noted Obua. Buganda coach Alex Isabirye hailed his charges performance, saying that a good start will inspire the team. “It is good to win the opening game. We played well in the first half but Lango came back in full force and dominated the second half. I am happy for the win and let’s look forward to the next game,” he noted. Buganda went three opening games winless last season despite becoming eventual maiden champions after their 2-1 aggregate win over West Nile in the two-leg final. Action continued yesterday with seven fixtures and different venues across the country as the other 14 provinces kicked off their campaign. The FUFA Drum tournament is meant to celebrate ancestry, rally patriotism, promote sports tourism, spread the game of football and unearth new raw talents.
