NEC climbed to the summit of the Uganda Premier League with a narrow but hard-fought 1-0 victory over Soltilo Bright Stars at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo on Wednesday evening.
Paul Mucureezi emerged as the hero for NEC, converting a decisive penalty in the 75th minute after Bright Stars defender Warren Buule fouled him in the box.
The experienced midfielder calmly slotted home to seal the victory, propelling NEC to 26 points, two clear of second-placed Vipers, who have played a game less.
The game was fiercely contested, with both teams creating scoring opportunities.
NEC’s Muzamiru Mutyaba nearly opened the scoring in the 11th minute, but his effort was cleared off the line.
Bright Stars had their best chance of the game in the 39th minute when they were awarded a penalty after NEC defender Patrick Bayiga was penalized for a handball.
However, Bright Stars captain Nelson Ssenkatuka, who has struggled for form this season, failed to capitalize.
He slipped shortly before taking the penalty, and his tame effort was saved by NEC goalkeeper Hannington Ssebwalunyo, keeping the game level at halftime.
NEC maintained their composure in the second half, and their persistence paid off when they earned a penalty with 15 minutes to go.
Mucureezi, who has consistently delivered in key moments this season, stepped up to convert the spot-kick, ensuring the Die Hards claimed all three points.
The result extended NEC’s unbeaten home run and solidified their position as title contenders.
Their next league fixture is an away game against BUL on December 18.
For Bright Stars, the loss marked their fourth consecutive defeat, all which have come with a one-goal margin, and leaves them rooted to the bottom of the table with just six points from 12 matches.
They will look to bounce back when they host UPDF, also on December 18.
In another game on Wednesday, Mbale Heroes salvaged a late 1-1 draw against UPDF in Bombo.
Samuel Ssekamate Kayongo gave UPDF the lead in the 19th minute, but Hilary Adima equalised for Mbale Heroes in the 84th minute to share the spoils.
