Paidha Black Angels capitalised on an explosive start to overpower rivals Onduparaka 3-1 in a high-stakes West Nile derby at Bar Okoro Stadium on Sunday.
Beyond the three crucial points, the Zombo-based side also recorded over UGX 14 million in gate collections, underscoring the passionate support behind their push for promotion.
Right from kickoff, Paidha stunned their visitors with two rapid-fire goals.
Frank Kasule Muna broke the deadlock in the first minute before Frederick Mayindi doubled the lead just two minutes later, sending the home fans into early celebrations.
Veteran forward Ceaser Okhuti gave Onduparaka hope with an 18th-minute strike, but Joel Jangeyambe sealed the win in the 88th minute with a spectacular finish.
With their latest victory, Paidha Black Angels moved to 23 points, climbing to fifth on the table and overtaking Onduparaka, who dropped to sixth with 22 points.
The win keeps Paidha firmly in the promotion conversation, as they sit just three points behind third-placed Buhimba United Saints, who hold the last promotion spot with 26 points.
As the second round of the FUFA Big League officially kicked off on Sunday, the seven matches played produced 14 goals, averaging two per game.
League leaders Gaddafi suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat to Kaaro Karungi, with Gideon Onyango’s last-gasp strike handing the visitors a valuable win.
Elsewhere, Buhimba United Saints edged Calvary 2-1, while Busoga United overcame Kataka 1-0.
The battle for promotion remains fierce, with Gaddafi and Blacks Power tied at the top with 30 points, followed by Buhimba Saints (26), Calvary (25), Paidha Black Angels (23), and Onduparaka (22).
Meanwhile, Kigezi Homeboyz (15 points), Arua Hill (14), Booma (13), and MYDA (12) find themselves in the relegation zone.
Paidha Black Angels will now turn their focus to their next home match against MYDA on Sunday, March 9, as they continue their quest for a return to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
