NEC reclaimed the top spot in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League after a 1-0 victory over Soltilo Bright Stars at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo, on Wednesday.
Paul Mucureezi, clinical from the penalty spot, scored the decisive goal with 16 minutes left to play. The victory propelled NEC to 26 points, two clear of Vipers SC, although the Venoms have a game in hand and face BUL on Saturday.
Mucureezi earned the penalty after being pulled down by Warren Buule in the box. The forward stepped up confidently to slot past goalkeeper Shamuran Kamya, notching his fifth goal of the season.
The win marked NEC’s eighth in 12 matches – the most in the league so far – furthering their steady credentials as potential title contenders. Meanwhile, Bright Stars’ struggles continued as they remained rooted to the bottom of the 16-team table with just six points from 12 matches.
Their defeat on Wednesday was worsened by NEC goalkeeper Hanningston Ssebwalunyo saving Nelson Senkatuka’s 42nd minute penalty when the game was still goalless. That save, which ensured a clean sheet for the home side, earned Ssebwalunyo a Man of the Match accolade.
Elsewhere, Mbale Heroes earned a crucial point in a 1-1 draw against UPDF. Samuel Ssekamatte had given UPDF a first-half lead from the penalty spot, but Hillary Adiima equalised for the Heroes six minutes from full time.
UPDF, with four wins, five draws, and three losses, sit fifth on 17 points, while Heroes are second from bottom with just three points ahead of Bright Stars.
