Express FC 3-1 URA: Ten-man hosts reduce gap to Vipers SC after convincing victory
Police FC also claimed a 3-0 win away to Kyetume to ensure they remained in the top-five bracket
Ten-man Express FC have defeated Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) FC 3-1 in the Ugandan Premier League at Mutesa II Wankulukuku Stadium, Kampala on Saturday.
An Erick Kambale brace and Godfrey Lwesibawa's strike were enough for the now third-placed hosts to reduce the gap between them and leaders Vipers SC to just a point. Stephen Mukwala scored the consolation for the visitors.
The Red Eagles needed just 10 minutes to score their first goal. Charles Musiige was allowed space on the wing and he spotted Lwesibawa in a good position. He crossed the ball towards him and the latter rose highest to head home the opener.
In the 18th minute, the six-time league champions doubled their advantage. The Taxmen conceded a free-kick which was taken by Martin Kizza and the unmarked Kambale had no problem heading the ball to the back of the net.
Express continued to push for more goals as their visitors struggled to get it right in the first half.
They were rewarded in the 37th minute when Kizza was fouled in the danger zone, and the referee awarded them a penalty. Kambale stepped up and did not make a mistake from 12-yards to ensure the hosts went to the break with a 3-0 lead.
The Red Eagles were reduced to 10 men in the 54th minute after defender Murushid Juuko made a second bookable offense.
Five minutes later, URA won a penalty after a foul was committed in the danger zone and Uganda international forward Mukwala stepped up to reduce the deficit.
Despite increasing their tempo, the Tax Collectors failed to get another goal and the hosts bagged maximum points.
In another league assignment played at Fufa Technical Centre in Njeru, Kyetume fell 3-0 to Police FC.
Muhamood Hassan scored the Cops' first goal after 11 minutes and ensured the Abdallah Mubiru-led charges lead 1-0 at half-time.
After the pause, Ben Ocen converted from the penalty spot to make it 2-0 in favour of the former champions. The third goal came with five minutes to go from Brian Mayanha, who scored from the penalty as well.
Vipers, URA, Express, KCCA, and Police FC take the first five positions on the table.