NEC defeated Police 1-0 on Friday evening in the Uganda Premier League, with Kagawa Ssenoga’s second half header securing all three points at the Kiira Road Police Arena in Kamwokya.
The decisive moment arrived in the 67th minute when Ssenoga rose above the defence to power home a header from Ronald Wandera’s well delivered free kick. The goal proved enough for NEC to claim a hard fought victory in a closely contested match.
NEC controlled long spells of the first half but were unable to convert their early pressure into a breakthrough.
Emmanuel Kulanga threatened from the left flank with a low drive that rattled the side netting, while Musa and Basangwa combined on the right to create a dangerous cross that narrowly evaded Shamir Kimwero inside the box.
Police also had their moments, forcing goalkeeper Hannington to intervene when Tezikya tested him with a firm effort. The NEC goalkeeper responded well, punching clear as the defence recovered to deal with the danger.
Chances continued to come for the visitors. Samuel Ssekamatte attempted an acrobatic bicycle kick that struck the side netting, while Basangwa later found space after a neat move with Ssenoga but saw the opportunity cleared by the Police defence. Despite the attacking intent from both sides, the teams went into the break level after a competitive first half.
NEC returned with greater urgency after the restart. Musa came close five minutes into the second half, his shot flashing just wide of the post as the visitors pushed for the opener.
The breakthrough finally arrived when Wandera delivered a dangerous free kick into the area and Ssenoga timed his leap perfectly to head past the goalkeeper.
NEC nearly doubled their advantage soon after. Tonny Atukunda’s free kick caused confusion inside the Police penalty area and Warren appeared to have scored, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
Police applied late pressure in search of an equaliser, but NEC’s defence held firm. Hannington and his backline maintained their discipline to secure a clean sheet and ensure the visitors left Kampala with maximum points.
Attention now shifts to the Stanbic Uganda Cup, where NEC will host Lugazi FC in the Round of 16 at the MTN Omondi Stadium. The match is scheduled for Tuesday next week with a 3pm kickoff.
