Lugazi FC’s Stanbic Uganda Cup run came to an end at the round of 16 as SC Villa struck the decisive goal mid-way the second half to march to the quarter-finals on Tuesday.

For the first time, Lugazi FC was playing at this level of the competition, and it was a performance of promise for the Leaders as, on the balance of play and chances, we edged the Jogoos and arguably deserved better.

The Leaders carried the larger threat throughout the cagy contest.

Hussein Ssenoga in particular caused SC Villa plenty of problems especially in the first half, and was denied twice by goalkeeper Medie Kibirige, while Sam Ssemugugu and Sharif Saaka also had attempts of their own.

At the other end, goalkeeper Juma Mutebi made some fantastic saves to deny Frank Mulimi, Elvis Ngonde and Francis Onekalit.

Steven Bogere’s men began the second period brightly – picking from where they had stopped with Saaka and Freedom Mungudit drawing saves from the visitors’ net minder.

However, it was not to be our day, as in the 69th minute SC Villa struck from close range through substitute Reagan Mpande barely five minutes after coming on.

We continued to enjoy some promising opportunities to attack when winning possession high up the pitch. A series of chances were presented in the bid to restore parity, but somehow, the Leaders did not manage to convert any despite a dominant display in the opponent’s half.

Hope was not lost at all, as four minutes to fulltime, Abdul Kalanzi combined with Sharif Saaka who sent a teasing ball into the box but the Jogoos cleared before Shafiq Avemah swung his swift legs. Sincerely, it was hard to believe why at least a goal failed to come. SC Villa then hang on until the final whistle was blown to confirm their victory.

The Leaders’ focus now switches to the Uganda premier league as we host Maroons FC on Friday March 28 next week.

Starting XI:

Juma Mutebi (GK), Richard Ayiko, Paul Wasswa, Joseph Othieno, Bayo Ali, Derrick Mwanje (Shafiq Avemah), Hussein Ssenoga (Abdul Kalanzi 59’), Sharif Saaka, Sam Ssemugugu (Moses Buga), Emmanuel Obua (Alvin Birungi), Freedom Mungudit (Ian Amanya).

Unused Substitutes;

Lubega Muhammed, Rogers Atube, Juma Ssajjabi, Lutakome Jumah Junior.