Title-chasing NEC dropped crucial points after conceding a late equaliser against Police, while BUL and Lugazi secured important victories in their respective Uganda Premier League games on Sunday.
At Kavumba Recreation Ground, NEC looked poised for a win after Cromwell Rwothomio’s first-half header put them ahead.
However, Police fought back, and in stoppage time, Emmanuel Mugume pounced on a rebound to snatch a 1-1 draw.
The result leaves NEC three points behind table leaders Vipers, who lead with 40 points. Police, meanwhile, remain just two places above the relegation zone with 19 points.
In Njeru, BUL returned to their home ground in emphatic fashion, sweeping aside bottom-placed Mbale Heroes 3-0.
Hillary Onek opened the scoring in the first half before Nicholas Mwere and Abdul Karim Ndugwa sealed the win with two quickfire goals after the break.
The victory propels BUL to fourth place with 26 points, while Mbale Heroes remain at the bottom with just nine points, deepening their relegation worries.
Lugazi continued their strong start to the second round with a narrow 1-0 win over Wakiso Giants.
Abdul Kalanzi converted a 54th-minute penalty after Shaibu Mtita fouled Freedom Mungudit in the box.
Lugazi’s goalkeeper Juma Mutebi produced key saves to preserve the lead, denying efforts from Hudson Mbalire and Blanchar Mutebi.
The result lifts Lugazi to 20 points, seven above the relegation zone, while Wakiso Giants remain in deep trouble with just 13 points and a 14-match winless streak.
NEC will be in action again on March 1, hosting Lugazi while Mbale Heroes will welcome Police as BUL travels to Bright Stars on the same day.
Wakiso Giants, desperate for a win, will then travel to Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo to face Express in the round’s final match on March 3.