The MTN Busoga Masaza Cup returned over the weekend with Kigulu, Bugweri, and Budiope securing important wins in matches played across Ivukula, Busesa, and Iganga despite heavy rains.
On Saturday, Bugweri strengthened their position at the top of the Mawembe group with a 2-1 victory over Bunhole Bunanhumba at Busesa Mixed Primary School.
Rotho Jeremiah Jabila scored twice to put Kenneth Kaluuba’s side in control, before Bunhole’s Alex Andinda pulled one back late on.
Kaluuba admitted conditions were difficult after a downpour, saying his side “were happy to have found the caution goal earlier in the second half.”
In Ivukula, Budiope kept their hopes alive with a 3-2 win away to Bukono in a lively encounter. Bukono’s Abbel Nabola struck first from distance, but Geoffrey Isoloza equalized from the penalty spot before the break.
Captain Steven Kirya and Isoloza then added quick goals in the second half to put Budiope ahead. Nabola responded with his second, but Bukono could not recover. Isoloza was named Man of the Match and awarded an MTN Kabode smartphone.
Bukono coach Farouk Kiige blamed his team’s collapse on poor defending in the second half, while Budiope’s Isa Kifuwa said his side’s determination to secure their first away win of the season had paid off.
Sunday’s headline game at Iganga Technical Institute saw Kigulu move to the top of the Nendha group with a 2-0 win over Butembe. Sizomu Benjamin scored early and later set up Owor Armstrong for the second. Butembe’s best chance fell to Wambuzi Yusuf, who hit the woodwork, but Kigulu held firm with Mwesigwa Jonathan earning Man of the Match honors.
Elsewhere in the group, Bukooli Namayingo defeated Busiki 3-0 to move into second place on six points, one ahead of Busiki. Butembe remain bottom with just two points.
Updated Standings
Mawembe Group: Bugweri 10 points, Bukono 7, Budiope 6 (two games left)
Nendha Group: Kigulu 8 points, Bukooli Namayingo 6, Busiki 5, Butembe 2
The tournament resumes midweek in Kamuli, with Bugabula hosting Bukooli Bugiri on Wednesday at Kamuli Municipal Stadium, followed by Buzaaya against Bunha on Thursday at Lwanyama Primary School.