Express bounced back to winning ways in style with a resounding 4-1 victory over struggling Wakiso Giants under the floodlights at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, on Monday night.
The result ended their two-game losing streak in the Uganda Premier League (UPL) and propelled them to fifth place on the table.
Sam Ssenyonjo was the star of the night, netting a hat trick that saw him climb to second place in the league’s goal-scoring charts with 11 goals, trailing Vipers’ Allan Okello, who leads with 14.
The forward opened his account in the 15th minute from the penalty spot after Ambrose Arinda brought down Richard Basangwa in the box.
Despite Express’ early dominance, Wakiso Giants found a way back into the game, equalising in the 65th minute through veteran winger Moses Oloya, who finished off a Blanchar Mulamba cross.
However, their celebrations were cut short as Basangwa restored Express’ lead five minutes later with a powerful strike.
Ssenyonjo then took centre stage, sealing the victory with two late goals in the 89th and 90th minutes.
His hat trick was the first recorded at the newly redeveloped Hamz Stadium, marking a historic moment for the Red Eagles.
The victory pushed the Red Eagles to 28 points from 18 matches, leapfrogging into fifth place, while the Purple Sharks remain in deep relegation trouble, sitting 14th with just 13 points.
Next up, Express will travel to face Lugazi on Thursday, March 6, while Wakiso Giants host title contenders NEC a day later at Kabaka Kyabaggu Grounds.
