MATCH REPORT: BUL FC 1-1 MBARARA CITY

BUL FC and Mbarara City shared the spoils with the game that closed our first round ending 1-1 on Saturday.

The first half had little goal mouth action at FUFA technical centre despite producing two goals, with the Eastern Giants dominating possession but struggled to break the away team down in the opening moments.

To be sincere, there were minimal talking points in the opening 37 minutes – not until BUL broke the deadlock on 39th minutes that the game breathed some life.

Gerald Ogweti had flashes of a standout striker as his bursting runs behind the defenders were a constant menace to the Ankole Lions whenever he had the ball.

With the game still level, Ogweti held up play from Martin Aprem, then made a half turn – leaving a gang of his markers in the shadow before finishing well in the bottom corner with a low ball to put BUL ahead.

Soon after the lead, the visitors threatened to restore parity when Isaac Amutuhairwe tried his luck from distance but goalkeeper Tom Ikara was equal to his effort.

With an initial three minutes added on, BUL looked like they were going to hold onto their lead into the break but Mbarara City scored on the run of play to level matters in the second minute of that added time through their captain Joseph Akandwanaho.

Henry Kitegenyi unleashed a scorcher that Ikara spilled into the path of the wide man and he made no mistake to plant the ball in an empty net.

After the interval, the Eastern Giants asserted their dominance and came out the blocks fast especially after the coach introduced Mathew Odongo, replacing Reagan Kalyowa.

His blistering pace created an instant impact, increasing the rhythm and flow of the game. Alex Kitata hit the bar from distance in pursuit of the winner, while Odongo also hit the side net moments after coming on following an excellent delivery from Martin Aprem. Shafik Kwikiriza went close off the bench before Ibrahim Mugulusi shot direct at the goalkeeper as the scoreline finished one apiece.

The result means BUL remains top of the tree with 33 points heading into the second round, holding a four-point advantage over second placed Kitara FC.

The Eastern Giants will open the second half of the season with a trip to Lugogo in February to play against KCCA FC in a 6:30pm kick off.

Starting XI:

Tom Ikara (GK), George Kasonko (Shafik Kwikiriza 72’), Ronald Otti, Nicholas Mwere, Douglas Muganga (Ibrahim Mugulusi 78’),Gerald Ogweti, Jerome Kirya, Reagan Kalyowa (Mathew Odongo Tayo 45’), Martin Aprem (Samuel Ssekamatte 72’), Alex Kitata, Benon Tahomera.

Unused substitutes:

Emmanuel Obua, Ibrahim Kazindula, Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Allan Kiggundu.

MATCH PREVIEW: BUL FC VS MBARARA CITY

January 06, 2024

Uganda Premier League

BUL FC Vs Mbarara City

FUFA Technical Centre

Kick-off: 4pm

BUL FC host Mbarara City in their first game on home turf in 2024 at FUFA technical centre in Njeru on Saturday.

After going six games without defeat, the Eastern Giants fell to a 2-1 beating on Wednesday away at Gaddafi FC and will be looking for a positive response at home as a big three points are up for grabs.

BUL have by no doubt had an impressive start to the 2023/24 campaign, hitting the ground running from the onset and bossing the standings for a long while now.

They sit at the top of the pile with ten wins, two draws and two losses from their 14 matches – counting 32 points, three ahead of the second placed Kitara FC who have played a game more.

Mbarara City have been in contrasting form however as they have won just three games, drawn seven and lost four of their 14 matches so far.

They come into the game off the back of a 2-1 victory over Wakiso Giants on Tuesday. The result took them to the 11th place on the table with a tally of 16 points, three above the Purple Sharks who occupy the last relegation spot.

BUL and Mbarara City last met in March 2022, with the game ending 1-1 at Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara. This is going to be the 11th league clash between the sides.

Team News

The game has come too early for midfielder Pascal Ngobi and will have to sit out this one as he continues with his rehabilitation. He’s the only player set to miss out tomorrow.

BUL is the only team yet to lose a home fixture as of now and coach Abbey Kikomeko has urged his charges to utilize the home advantage to return to winning ways and close the first round in style.

“We are playing our last game in the first round – following a defeat at Gaddafi, a game which was not easy given that it was even a derby. But we are playing tomorrow against Mbarara City at our home ground,” he said.

“We have never lost a game at home, the last time we played here, we beat Busoga United 1-0 but tomorrow we are playing a game that is also not going to be easy for us. Nevertheless, I know we have that winning mentality at home.”

“We shall fight hard to see that we bounce back from our previous loss. The boys are prepared and I think we shall get the three points out of that game.”

Striker Samuel  Ssekamatte said;

“It is our last fixture of the first round. We are coming from a loss away from home but this season as players we agreed not to lose at home. And I believe we have done what is required to get maximum points tomorrow.”

“We have made corrections and rectified the mistakes we did in our previous game.  We have put the loss behind us and all we are looking for is maximum points.”

Head to Head

P10 W3 D4 L3

Both sides have met in ten league matches, and the encounters have produced three wins for BUL, three for Mbarara City and four draws.

Last four meetings

March 28, 2022

Mbarara City 1-1 BUL FC

November 02, 2021

BUL FC 1-0 Mbarara City

May 9, 2021

BUL FC 1-1 Mbarara City

March 17, 2021

Mbarara City 1-1 BUL FC

Match Facts

  • BUL have won five games and drawn one, amassing 16 points from a possible 18 in six home matches.
  • The Eastern Giants are also unbeaten in nine home matches – stretching back to April last year. They have registered five wins and four draws along the streak.
  • Out of the six clean sheets they have managed this term, four have come at FUFA technical centre.
  • It is only on defeat for BUL in their past seven matches. They have also scored in each of them.
  • They have lost two games in 14 matches at the present but all the defeats were away from home – the 2-0 defeat at UPDF in November and the 2-1 loss at Gaddafi FC merely a day ago.
  • Kikomeko’s side is unbeaten in their past four league games against Mbarara City – winning one and drawing three. Actually BUL’s last slump to Mbarara City happened close to four years ago, the 1-0 loss at Kakyeka stadium in February 2020.
  • Also in their previous five home matches against the Ankole Lions, the Eastern Giants have three wins and two draws. They scored eight goals across them and conceded just two.
  • This fixture has produced 19 goals since 2017, and BUL has 11 to their name.
  • Mbarara City have played six away matches, lost and drawn three in equal shares – picking three points from a possible 18. They drew at Express, Busoga United and UPDF, and lost to Gaddafi, Maroons and URA.
  • Their goal count on the road is two, while they have conceded seven.
  • They are winless in 21 topflight away games – counting from October 2021. Along that winless streak, they have drawn in only four outings.
  • The Ankole Lions’ last away victory on the road in the premier league was against Kyetume FC in June 2021 (Kyetume 1-3 Mbarara City).
  • Their eight goals this season are the fewest by any side in the league.
  • But they are the draw masters currently with seven stalemates, the most in the division.
  • And they have won and drawn two games apiece; losing just once in their immediate last five matches altogether. The defeat came at URA in December.

Match officials

The referee for this match is Sabilla Ali. Sabilla will be assisted by Kateregga Ashiraf and Mafumu Mustapha as the first and second assistant referee respectively. Naigaga Habiba will be the fourth official while Kalyango Ali will be the referee assessor.

Match Coverage
For the best live experience, all fans should flock to FUFA technical centre but they can alternatively follow the action through our social media channels below, with full text coverage during the game, followed by a match report.
Twitter: @bulfc1
Facebook: Bul Football Club – Jinja
Instagram: bulfc
YouTube: BUL FC TV

MATCH REPORT: GADDAFI FC 2-1 BUL FC

BUL FC were defeated 2-1 away at Gaddafi FC at the Gaddafi Arena despite a spirited second half performance. The Eastern Giants missed a penalty in the early exchanges and hit the wood work in the second half, while Gerald Ogweti got off the mark as he scored his first goal for BUL since joining the club from big league side Lugazi FC.

The hosts looked threatening in the wide areas and ultimately profited from two first half goals to take all the three points.

Frank Mulimi opened the scoring for the Soldier boys with eleven minutes played. The winger picked up a pass, spun around Nicholas Mwere and into box before  poking the ball under the arms of the advancing goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa to score in an empty net.

At the half hour mark, they went 2-0 up through a Ronald Bithum Nsumbiano header following a dangerous ball into the area.

But before the deficit, BUL declined a chance of their own to go into the lead on four minutes in. Joel Madondo fired a penalty kick straight at goalkeeper Andrew Ssekandi after Reagan Kalyowa was fouled in the forbidden area by Franco Magero Balabala.

With the score line at 1-0, they went close to equalizing when Gaddafi failed to clear in the 26th minute, with the ball falling into the path of Reagan Kalyowa but his effort from inside the box was charged down by the lively Gaddafi goalkeeper.

Coach Abbey Kikomeko made a double change for the Eastern Giants at halftime. Gerald Ogweti and Ibrahim Muglusi came on for Joel Madondo and Reagan Kalyowa, and their impact was immediately felt.

BUL then began the second half with attacking intent. A neat passing move involving Jerome Kirya and Mugulusi teed up Martin Aprem whose shot clipped off the post with the goalkeeper out of place.

Buoyed by a positive opening, the Eastern Giants went forward again, and this time, their efforts were rewarded with a goal. Ogweti curled the ball from the left side to pull one back.

Just before the 80th minute mark, the coach made another double change in the bid to force at least a draw. There was also a change in the formation, switching to a back three after introducing attackers Shafik Kwikiriza and Samuel Ssekamatte for Martin Aprem and defender Douglas Muganga.

In the closing stages, BUL dominated and was in total control of the affairs on the pitch but there was resolute defending from the soldier boys – thus condemning Kikomeko’s side to a second loss this season.

BUL remained in the first place with 32 points from 14 matches.

They will be in the league action again on Saturday against Mbarara City at FUFA technical centre in Njeru.

Starting XI:

Joel Mutakubwa(GK), Douglas Muganga (Samuel Ssekamatte 78’), Nicholas Mwere, Ronald Otti, Walter Ochora, George Kasonko, Jerome Kirya, Martin Aprem (Shafik Kwikiriza 78’),   Alex Kitata, Reagan Kalyowa (Ibrahim Mugulusi 45’) Joel Madondo (Gerald Ogweti 45’).

Unused substitutes:

Tom Ikara (GK), Benon Tahomera, Mathew Odongo Tayo, Vicent Zziwa, Emmanuel Obua, Allan Kiggundu.

MATCH PREVIEW: GADDAFI FC VS BUL FC

January 03, 2024
Uganda Premier League
Gaddafi FC Vs BUL FC
Gaddafi Arena
Kick-off: 4pm


BUL FC are back on the road on Wednesday, making a short trip across the city to the Gaddafi arena to take on Gaddafi FC in another Jinja derby.
The Eastern Giants will be looking to start the New Year on a flyer, and with a healthy victory following a hard fought 1-0 win over Busoga United five days ago.
Abbey Kikomeko’s side head into the match six points clear at the top, at the time of writing. A third win on the bounce will clearly keep the Eastern Giants in the driving seat comfortably. As a result of ten wins and two draws in 13 outings, BUL have gathered 32 points, six ahead of Kitara FC who play a day before them.
For Gaddafi, winners in just four games in the league all season, they desperately need the points if they are to avoid the tussle in the relegation waters.
From the 13 matches, they have collected 13 points, one better of Busoga United who occupy the last place of the red zone.
They come into this one on the back of a disappointing 5-0 loss at Maroons last time out.
The sides last met in April and the clash finished 0-0 at FUFA technical centre. This is going to be their fifth meeting.


Team News
BUL will continue to do without midfielder Pascal Ngobi who is still nursing an injury, and he remains the only absentee ahead of Wednesday’s game.
After hustling to win against Busoga United five days ago, coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere anticipates another strenuous challenge in BUL’s way but promised his men will die a little to get the job done.
“Gaddafi is a team that often disturbs us in the league but we played our first derby against Busoga United which wasn’t easy and we managed to win 1-0,” he said.
“Tomorrow we are playing our second derby which I know is also going to be very difficult. But we shall do whatever it calls to get maximum points from that team.”
“Much as they lost their previous game against Maroons 5-0, this is not going to be easy game for us because we are away from home. However, we shall fight hard to see that we get all the three points from the barracks.”
Captain George Kasonko said;
“We are playing Gaddafi and it’s a derby, and there is no weak or strong team in a derby game. But one with the biggest character wins the day.”
“But as BUL, we are determined because we know what we want. We shall give in all we can to win the game.”

Head to Head
In the four competitive meetings between BUL and Gaddafi, there has been one BUL win and three draws
Previous four meetings
November 28, 2021
BUL FC 1-1 Gaddafi
April 04, 2022
Gaddafi 0-2 BUL FC
October 25, 2022
Gaddafi FC 1-1 BUL FC
March 29, 2023
BUL FC 0-0 Gaddafi FC
Match Facts
• BUL’s seven away matches have produced five wins, one draw and one defeat – tallying 16 points from a possible 21, the best away record in the league this campaign.
• Across all the trips, the Eastern Giants have scored twelve goals and conceded seven, and kept two clean sheets – against Bright Stars and Wakiso Giants.
• In 13 matches this season, BUL have dropped points in only three games – during the 2-0 loss at UPDF in early November and the consecutive 1-1 draws against Express and NEC in early December.
• They have scored in almost every game this season except the one against UPDF in November.
• Since losing to the army side, BUL are unbeaten in their past six games. They have won four and drawn two, scored 11 goals and conceded five during the run.
• Kikomeko’s men have never lost to the soldier boys – won one and drawn three times in four matches against each other. The win came at Gaddafi Arena in April 2022.
• Of the six goals scored in this fixture, BUL have four.
• This season, Gaddafi have won two, drawn one and lost four games thus picking only seven points from a possible 21 after playing seven home matches.
• The Soldier boys have however lost just once in their last four matches in the barracks, and that was against Wakiso Giants recently.
• But as a matter of fact, they have lost eight games this season at the present.
• They have also scored just eight goals and conceded ten at home.
Match Officials
Outeke Daniel will control proceedings from the centre on Wednesday.
Outeke will be assisted by Mutonyi Jane and Magoola Ashraf on the touchlines, while Duula Joshua and Amin Bbosa Nkono will be the fourth official and referee assessor respectively.
Match Coverage
All fans should follow the action through our social media channels below, with full text coverage during the game, followed by a match report.
Twitter: @bulfc1
Facebook: Bul Football Club – Jinja
Instagram: bulfc
You Tube: BUL FC TV

MATCH REPORT:  BUL FC 1-0 BUSOGA UNITED

Alex Kitata marked his return to the starting eleven with a goal that saw BUL FC race to a 1-0 victory over neighbors Busoga United in a Jinja derby game played on Thursday.

Abbey Kikomeko’s men went into the match at FUFA technical centre knowing that they needed all three points in order to fortify their position at the top and with a big points gap. BUL now have 32 points from thirteen matches, six points ahead of Kitara FC in second place.

The game got underway with the Eastern Giants passing the ball very well and pressed for an early lead as Alex Kitata almost opened the scores in the fourth minute, the forward leapt towards Ibrahim Mugulusi’s inviting corner but BUL’s number 26 couldn’t connect with the ball and was just inches away from a near post finish.

A few moments later, Nicholas Mwere attempted to catch his former side by surprise with a long range effort. The left back picked the ball around the centre line, marshaled off Fredrick Ngalo and sent a rocket but his effort smashed the post and went out.

Busoga’s first real threat came with twenty minutes played. Mugwa Bashamu spotted Jeremy Matata’s dangerous run on the left and placed the ball into his path, the winger cut inside to find space, leaving his markers behind but goalkeeper Tom Ikara made a swift run off his line to close him down.

BUL then continued to enjoy some good spells of possession. The tempo was up a bit with the Eastern Giants showing more purpose and desire to the get the first goal of the game. Their dominance finally paid midway the first half.

Kitata made no mistake this time as he glanced in a header past Salim Wekiya in the visitors’ goal off Ibrahim Mugulusi’s fantastic delivery from a corner in the 30th minute.

Busoga United came close to dragging the game level in a blink as a long ball was lofted into the box, Moses Logono ghosted and broke free in the box but his header from close range was over the bar.

As Lucky Kasalirwe blew his whistle for half time, the Eastern Giants were ahead as the score remained 1-0 thanks to Kitata’s goal.

Coach Abbey Kikomeko quickly made a change when Lawrence Tezikya came on for Ibrahim Mugulusi before the restart but it was Busoga United who started the second half brightly – causing problems for BUL.

A little while into the second half, they introduced Hussein Ssajjabbi who attempted several dangerous shots from the middle but BUL’s defense managed to clear all the danger.

The Eastern Giants responded with another substitution, throwing Joel Madondo into the fray – replacing Reagan Kalyowa at the hour mark.

That did not tilt the second half into BUL’s favor as the visitors continued with several attacks in search for an equalizer, and at one time, Ronald Otti was forced to clear off the line to deny Peter Onen’s men a goal.

The coach then brought on Gerald Ogweti and Emmanuel Obua for Alex Kitata and Martin Aprem respectively.

But Busoga remained committed to looking for at least a point.

Emmanuel Ajo once again came within inches of firing in a leveler for his side in 88th minute, the forward picked his spot well in the area but he skewed his shot and referee indicated a goal kick for BUL.

Their last chance fell to Ngore simon from a free kick in the additional time.  However, Walter Ochora policed well and kicked the ball far into safety.

BUL’s next league engagement is on 3rd January 2024 with a visit to Gaddafi FC at the Gaddafi Arena in the barracks.

Starting XI:

Tom Ikara (GK), George Kasonko, Ronald Otti, Nicholas Mwere, Walter Ochora, Ibrahim Mugulusi (Lawrence Tezikya 46’), Douglas Muganga, Jerome Kirya, Reagan Kalyowa (Joel Madondo 60’), Martin Aprem (Emmanuel Obua 89’), Alex Kitata (Gerald Ogweti 81’)

Unused substitutes:

Ibrahim Kazindula, Edrine Opaala, Mathew Odongo Tayo, Samuel Ssekamatte, Shafik Kwikiriza, Vicent Zziwa, Benon Tahomera, Joel Mutakubwa.

MATCH PREVIEW: BUL FC VS BUSOGA UNITED

Thursday December 28, 2023

Uganda Premier League

BUL FC VS Busoga United

FUFA Technical Centre

Kick-off: 4pm

BUL FC will seek to put up one of the finest shows in front of its own fans on a Thursday evening, as they host neighbors Busoga United at FUFA technical centre in the first of the four Jinja derbies this season.

BUL have continued their impressive overall form, with the Eastern Giants losing one game only in twelve matches, finding themselves in the first position with 29 points, five better of Vipers SC in second place.

The Eastern Giants come into the game looking to make it six league games unbeaten after picking up a thrilling 3-2 away win over Vipers last Friday. Nicholas Mwere, Lawrence Tezikya and Ibrahim Mugulusi scored to earn them the vital three points.

Busoga United are in the 14th place on the table. They have amassed 12 points so far this season which sees them just one point from the safety spot.

In their last outing, they drew 2-2 at home to URA. Emmanuel Ajo and Hussein Ssajjabbi gave Busoga a halftime lead but strikes from Bruno Bunyaga and Moses Aliro in the second half meant they had to settle for just a point.

Former BUL coach Peter Onen is in charge of the visitors while the Eastern Giants tactician Abbey Kikomeko Bogere is an icon at Busoga United having coached them right from the regional league to the Uganda premier league, winning them the big league trophy in the process.

The last clash between the sides ended 1-1 in April at Kakindu stadium. This is going to be their 16th meeting.

Team News

Pascal Ngobi remains the only absentee for BUL. Coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere confirmed Reagan Kalyowa returned to full fitness and ready to feature, while defenders – Benon Tahomera and Walter Ochora who have been on suspension are also back.

While previewing the match, the coach warned that it will not be a walk in the park but remained optimistic saying that the team will flex the muscles to bag all the points.

“Busoga United knows us very well. Most of the players at BUL were in Busoga, I personally was also at Busoga. But at the moment, we are in different clubs and we are all looking for points.  They want the points but we also need them,” he said.

“It is therefore going to be a hard game but we shall also fight hard to maintain our position at the top, and with the performance we are having at the moment, I know we shall win it.”

“We shall not take any game for granted now that we are on top of the table. We shall fight hard to get all the three points.”

Joel Madondo said;

“I am a former player there and I know what they are capable of doing. But as BUL, we have prepared enough to take on them and get the three points. The camp is lively and everyone is enthusiastic and excited to play.”

Head to Head

P15 W5 D7 L3

This fixture has produced 15 meetings between the two teams in all competitions, resulting into five wins for BUL, three victories for Busoga and seven draws.

Last four encounters

February 25, 2022

Busoga United 0-3 BUL FC

March 25, 2022

Busoga United 1-1 BUL FC

November 25, 2022

BUL FC 2-0 Busoga United

April 21, 2023

Busoga United 1-1 BUL FC

Match facts

  • BUL FC have nine wins, two draws and a loss this campaign– gathering 29 points, the most of any side in the league.
  • Since losing to UPDF in November, the Eastern Giants are unbeaten in their past five matches – winning three and drawing two.
  • They have also scored ten goals and conceded five across the run.
  • Out of the 12 matches, they have kept five clean sheets – with three coming at home.
  • It is 13 points for BUL as a result of four wins and a draw in five home matches. They have also conceded the least goals at home this season – two.
  • The Eastern Giants have won three of their last five meetings with Busoga United – won 5-0 in December 2021, 3-0 in February 2022, drew 1-1 in March, then dispatched their neighbors 2-0 in November of the same year before sharing the points in April 2023.
  • Only two players have scored hat-tricks in this fixture, and all were in BUL colors – Joseph Ssemujju in their 3-1 victory in December 2020 and Ibra Nsimbe in December 2021 during the 5-0 win.
  • The sides have played seven draws between themselves; two were 0-0 draws, four stalemates finished 1-1 while the other draw ended 2-2.
  • This derby has produced 34 goals since 2016, 21 of them scored by BUL FC.
  • The ties between the sides have produced at least a goal except on two occasions – the barren stalemates of September 2016 and March 2017.
  • Busoga United have collected six points, scored four goals and conceded thirteen in six away matches.
  • They have three wins this season which were equally spread in the past three months. They beat Arua Hill, Gaddafi and KCCA FC in September, October and November respectively.
  • Out of their last three games, they have drawn two – against Maroons and URA FC.
  • But since winning at Gaddafi FC, they have lost their last three away matches consecutively. They lost at Bright Stars, SC Villa and Wakiso Giants.
  • Their last victory over BUL was two years ago when they beat the Eastern Giants 1-0 in April 2021 courtesy of Ivan Wani’s goal at Kyabazinga stadium.

Match Officials

Kasalirwe Lucky is the referee for this match, will be assisted by Mafumu Mustapha and Mbabali Samuel as the first and second assistant referee. Duula Johua will be the fourth official while Kityo Asumani will be the referee assessor.

Match Coverage

The game will be live on television but you can also follow the action through our social media channels below, with full text coverage during the game, followed by a match report.

Twitter: @bulfc1

Facebook: Bul Football Club – Jinja

Instagram: bulfc

MATCH REPORT: VIPERS SC 2-3 BUL FC

BUL FC moved five points clear at the top of the Uganda premier league after edging Vipers SC in a five goal thriller on Friday night. The Eastern Giants won 3-2 at St. Mary’s stadium, Kitende.

BUL have 29 points now, five ahead of the venoms who remained in the second place despite the defeat.

It was BUL’s ninth win of the campaign after twelve matches and the result saw the hosts lose for the first time at home in domestic competitions, bringing an end to their about 40 games unbeaten streak at the venue they called a fortress before Friday.

While Vipers enjoyed the lion’s share of ball possession, it was the Eastern Giants who posed more of a goal threat throughout the game – with Nicholas Mwere, Lawrence Tezikya and Ibrahim Mugulusi scoring to return BUL to winning ways.

Abbey Kikomeko’s men needed courage to get going and that is exactly what happened eight minutes in. Just moments after Jerome Kirya’s corner was punched back into play by Fabien Mutombora, the Eastern Giants took the lead when Nicholas Mwere peeled off the crowded pack and backwards into space, and then unleashed a hard slashing effort which evaded everyone to find the back of the net.

Vipers came close to leveling terms midway the first half through Yunus Ssentamu. Allan Okello lofted a long pass into the box with the striker controlling the ball well but was naïve and didn’t know what to do with it afterwards, allowing Tom Ikara to have an easy catch.

On the stroke of halftime, BUL made it clear to their hosts that had surely come for all the three points as they deservedly went 2-0 up before the break with a rare beautiful goal that nation may not see again.

Lawrence Tezikya was the chief tormentor this time as he robbed Livingston Mulondo of the ball and took it to the onrushing Mutombora in the box, he drifted outwards and rounded the goalkeeper but despite finding himself in a difficult angle, Tezikya skillfully picked out the far side of the net with a well curled ball that sailed between a retreating Paul Mbowa and the near post to silence the home fans.

The hosts however reduced the deficit five minutes into the second half through Yunus Sentamu. Bright Anukani started the move and combined well with Eric Kambale who slipped in Sentamu down the left. The forward then teased Douglas Muganga on his way into the box before he swerved in to give his side false hope of a potential comeback.

But things even got better for BUL when Ibrahim Mugulusi came off the bench three minutes off the hour mark. In the 66th minute, he benefited from an inch perfect pass from another substitute – Alex Kitata to fire home the third goal that sealed the victory.

Vipers didn’t stop trying though, and again pulled one goal back through Mohamed Salem Ekbad who planted in a header off a Patrick Mbowa cross ten minutes from time.

They continued to search for the equalizer and Bright Anukani came close to delivering them the badly needed point but he was denied from a free kick by the upright in added time. BUL then hanged on until the final whistle to walk home with all the three points.

The Eastern Giants next task will be against Busoga United at FUFA technical centre in Njeru on Thursday next week.

Starting XI:

Tom Ikara(GK), Nicholas Mwere, Ronald Otti, Douglas Muganga, Hillary Onek, George Kasonko, Jerome Kirya, Martin Aprem (Shafiq Kwikiriza 78’), Lawrence Tezikya, Gerald Ogweti (Alex Kitata 55’), Joel Madondo.

Unused substitutes:

Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Samuel Ssekamatte, Allan Kiggundu, Edrine Opaala, John Okurut (GK), Emmanuel Obua, Richard Ayiko, Ibrahim Kazindula, Vicent Zziwa.

MATCH PREVIEW: VIPERS SC VS BUL FC

Friday December 22, 2023

Uganda Premier League

Vipers SC Vs BUL FC

St.Mary’s Stadium

Kick-off: 7pm

BUL FC will aim to pull away further at the top of the Uganda premier league table when they travel to Vipers SC on Friday night.

The Eastern Giants made it two draws on the trot just about two weeks ago, registering a 1-1 stalemate against NEC. Samuel Ssekamatte came off the bench to pounce in a header to help BUL to their second draw of the campaign.

They remained at the top of the league standings with that result, counting 26 points. Second-placed Vipers also dropped points against Maroons three days later in a one all stalemate; thus, BUL can open up a five-point lead at the summit with a win in this match.

Abbey Kikomeko’s men have eight league victories to this point, suffering just one defeat in eleven rounds. They have also won two games and drawn one of their last four meetings with the venoms, and will be looking to build on that form coming into this clash.

Vipers on the other hand are also buzzing with form after recording seven wins, but they were made to dig deep against Maroons to rescue a point in their last outing.

BUL won 1-0 the last time the two teams met but it was in the FUFA super eight tournament. Friday’s encounter is going to be the 27th battle between the sides in all competitions since 2011.

Team News

Coach Abbey Kikomeko remains without the services of midfielder Pascal Ngobi because of an injury and the suspended pair of defenders – Walter Ochora and Benon Tahomera.

But he confirmed Ronald Otti and Reagan Kalyowa are back to full fitness and ready to give Vipers headache.

It will be the first time playing under the floodlights this season for the Eastern Giants as it is a night game but the coach said, that will not be an issue and will be moving in for the kill.

“We are prepared for the 7pm match. I don’t see any difference between playing at 7pm or 4pm, much as this time it is going to be under floodlights,” he said.

“The boys are prepared and ready to give us whatever is needed to win the game. We are playing a team that’s at home, a team that knows its pitch well and plays under floodlights quite often but that is not going to be an issue to us.”

“The players we have are not juniors, so, they will come out to play and fight for the maximum points.”

Midfielder Ibrahim Mugulusi said;

“It is a top of the table clash and Vipers is one of the big teams in Uganda but we have to get three points out of it.”

“As players, we are much prepared. We all know we didn’t win our previous two games and we just need to get back to our winning ways.”

Head to head

P26 W4 D7 L15

The teams have faced off on 26 occasions in all competitions since 2011, producing four wins for BUL, fifteen for Vipers and seven draws.

Last four encounters

June 12, 2022 (Uganda cup final)

Vipers SC 1-3 BUL FC

December 17, 2023

Vipers SC 2-1 BUL FC

May 23, 2023

BUL FC 1-1 Vipers SC

August 12, 2023

BUL FC 1-0 Vipers SC (Super 8 quarter finals)

Match Facts

  • BUL has the best away record in the division after winning four games, drawing and losing one in equal shares from six away matches to pick 13 points from a possible 18 on the road. They have scored nine goals and conceded five in the process.
  • After losing to UPDF, BUL have gone four matches unbeaten but have only managed to draw in their last two games – against Express and NEC FC.
  • They have also scored in all but one game this season, the 2-0 defeat at the army side in November.
  • The Eastern Giants have also kept five clean sheets in 11 matches.
  • Out of the eleven league visits to Vipers, BUL have won only one game – the 1-0 victory in mid-April of 2016, in Buikwe.
  • BUL’s four victories against the Venoms were far in between as the first was in February 2014 (BUL 2-1 Vipers SC), the second arrived two years later in April 2016 (Vipers SC 0-1 BUL FC) before the unforgettable triumph in Uganda cup followed six years on ( Vipers 1-3 BUL). This was trailed by a 1-0 win in the quarter finals of the FUFA super eight in August 2023.
  • It is seven years since the Eastern Giants won an away league fixture against Vipers, winning 1-0 in April of 2016 in Buikwe.
  • But the Eastern Giants have won two games and drawn one of their last four meetings with the venoms across all competitions.
  • This fixture has produced a total of 60 goals and BUL have 20 to their name since 2011.
  • Only six stalemates have come in the games involving the sides, and four were goalless.
  • Vipers have the best home record so far with four wins and a draw in five matches.
  • They also hold a record of 40 local games without defeat at St. Mary’s stadium, winning 33 and drawing seven. Their last loss at home was two years ago when they fell 2-0 to URA in November 2021.
  • After losing to KCCA FC, the venoms have now gone four games without defeat.
  • They have also kept six clean sheets in their eleven matches this season.

Match Officials

The match’s referee will be Ssali Mashood. Katenya Ronald and Musisi Brianson will run the lines as the first and second assistant referee respectively. Olemu George will be the fourth official while Mawanda Haruna will be the referee assessor.

Match Coverage

This mouthwatering clash is live on television and all our social media channels will relay minute to minute text commentary concurrently.

Twitter: @bulfc1

Facebook: Bul Football Club – Jinja

Instagram: bulfc

MATCH REPORT: BUL FC 1-1 NEC FC

Late second half substitute Samuel Kayongo Ssekamatte scored a late equalizer to earn BUL an important point against NEC FC at FUFA technical centre in Njeru. He came on for Jerome Kirya around the 78th minute.

Trailing to a first half Rashid Okocha goal, the Eastern Giants industriousness and tenacity eventually paid off in the second half.

Ssekamatte, who had been introduced with about twelve minutes on the clock, brushed from inside the box to peg the visitors back with his first league goal this season.

The goal secured a deserved draw for BUL who remained unbeaten at home this season with 26 points at the top of the table.

The opening twenty minutes of the contest were dominated by NEC in terms of ball possession and goal mouth action – playing with precision and intent to get an early lead.

They threatened with just four minutes in when Cromwell Rwothomio found himself into acres of space to receive a pass but his effort missed by inches.

The visitors threatened once more from a Sulaiman Ssesaazi free kick delivered from a deep position on the right flank – but an alert Douglas Muganga stepped up and hooked the ball away.

Tom Ikara, who made more than five point blank saves in the game, was the first keeper properly tested with twenty five minutes played, palming away a Rashid Okocha biting shot in a one on one situation. The left back breezed into the box after dribbling past a couple of markers but Ikara spread his body well to deny him.

Ikara was named player of the match

BUL’s first realistic chance arrived midway the half when Nicholas Mwere played a give and go with Alex Kitata. The full back picked out Jerome Kirya in the box who held the ball up and then laid for Kitata whose effort went wide.

Ibrahim Kazindula tried his luck quite often from range whenever he got the opportunity but was let down by his boots which didn’t find the much needed target.

And it was NEC who would break the deadlock to finish the first half strongly. Rashid Okocha benefited from space on the left side and guided a ferocious shot past Ikara to finally give his side a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Unlike the opening half, BUL grew with the game – playing with a high tempo and creating chances after making some changes before the restart. Gerald Ogweti and Lawrence Tezikya were brought on for Alex Kitata and Ibrahim Kazindula.

Their impact was felt immediately with Tezikya stinging the gloves of Samson Kirya direct from a corner. BUL continued to press relentlessly and a few moments later, another fantastic ball was sent into box only that Martin Aprem failed to connect with it.

Tom Ikara was however called into action by Joseph Dhata from range, the goalkeeper flexed to stop the shot but it left him needing medical attention on 54 minutes.

By this time, NEC were again fighting to stretch their lead and came close to doubling their advantage when Enock Ssebaggala went through on goal and into the box but Ikara for another time proved mister reliable for BUL with another wonderful save.

Okocha was presented with one more shooting opportunity following a poor clearance into his path. He travelled into the box, broke and teased a defender before shooting but George Kasonko was in the right place to block the ball with his knee.

It later became an Ikara show as the battle between him and Okocha continued. He was further called into action by the marauding lefter in another one on one faceoff but the netminder buoyantly refused to concede a second.

Abbey Kikomeko’s men remained optimistic for a comeback – throwing everything at the visitors with Gerald Ogweti testing Kirya with a perfect strong header before the long awaited moment arrived.

Nicholas Mwere

In the 84th minute, Mwere used his energy well – whipping in a dangerous cross. With the goal in his back but knowing well where it was, Ssekamatte went airborne and twisted his neck to brush in past the onrushing goalkeeper to force the game level and ultimately rescue a point for the Eastern Giants.

The goal was turning moment for BUL. The team began to play flowing football and almost took all the three points in the additional minutes after the ninety but Ogweti’s header was tipped over the bar before Kasonko drove a long shot wide.

Next for BUL will be the nervewrecking encounter against Vipers SC at St. Mary’s Kitende on the 23rd of December.

Starting XI:

Tom Ikara (GK), Douglas Muganga, Richard Ayiko, George Kasonko, Ibrahim Kazindula (Lawrence Tezikya), Jerome Kirya (Samuel Ssekamatte), Hillary Onek, Nicholas Mwere, Alex Kitata (Gerald Ogweti) Shafiq Kwikiriza (Reagan Kalyowa), Martin Aprem (Ibrahim Mugulusi).

Unused substitutes:

John Okuruti (GK), Joel Mutakubwa (GK), Emmanuel Obua, Mathew Odongo, Vicent Zziwa, Emmanuel Kalyowa,.

MATCH PREVIEW: BUL FC VS NEC FC

Sunday 10th October 2023

Uganda Premier League

FUFA Technical Centre

BUL FC Vs NEC FC

Kick-off: 3pm

BUL FC is back at home after playing two uninterrupted games at rival territories, and we host NEC FC for Sunday afternoon’s tie at FUFA Technical Centre with kick off set at 3pm.

Our last appearance at the fortress occurred in the past month when we beat Kitara FC 2-1.

Abbey Kikomeko’s men are unbeaten in four home games this season but were compelled to sweat blood four days ago away from home as they played out a 1-1 draw at Express, and there can never be a better place that can oil us back to winning ways than FUFA technical centre.

Sunday’s action just provides the chance to reawaken the giant in us as we bid to relaunch our winning machinery.

Eight wins, one draw and a loss apiece have produced 25 points for the Eastern giants, two points ahead of Vipers SC in second place.

Our opponents currently sit in the third position with 19 points after winning six games, drawing one and losing three in ten matches.

They come into this one on the back of a 2-0 win over URA FC.

This will be the first meeting between the two teams.

 Team News

Head coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere has confirmed that apart from the suspended duo of Benon Tahomera and Walter Ochora, and the injured midfielder Pascal Ngobi, the rest of the players are available and ready to feature.

Coach’s remarks

“NEC is not a simple team despite being new in the league. They have been performing very well since the season started. They have mature players but that is not going to be a test for us,” Kikomeko said.

“We have so far played better teams than them much as we have been having some few problems here and there that we have been handling and I think now that we are at home; we shall put in whatever is needed to get the maximum points.”

Defender Ronald Otti said that even if NEC has been playing well and has experienced players, BUL will handle them the way they will come because they are well prepared.

Match Facts

  • BUL have won eight of their past ten games, including all four home matches this season, scored sixteen goals (16) and conceded six in the process with a count of 25 points.
  • From the ten matches, they have managed five clean sheets, against – Bright Stars, KCCA FC, Maroons, URA FC and Wakiso Giants.
  • The Eastern Giants are still unbeaten and the most inform home side in the division after picking a maximum of twelve points in four games at FUFA Technical Centre with one goal conceded. They have scored seven goals during the run.
  • Following their win against Kitara in November, BUL’s unbeaten streak was stretched to seven games – going back to April last season.
  • They have failed to score in only one game this term – the 2-0 defeat at UPDF and it is the only time they have conceded as many goals in a game.
  • NEC have won six of their ten matches this season, lost three and drawn one. In the process, they have scored fourteen goals and conceded eight.
  • They have also won three games and lost two of their five away games. They lost against SC Villa (3-0) and Kitara (1-0).  They won against Mbarara City (1-0), KCCA FC (2-0) and Maroons (1-0).
  • Hussein Mbalangu’s side has scored and conceded four goals in equal shares on the road.
  • They have so far kept six clean sheets altogether.
  • But they have failed to score in three games this campaign – against SC Villa, Gaddafi FC and Kitara. They lost all of them.

Match Officials

Referee Olemu George will take charge of the match from the centre. Oriada Hakim and Kateregga Ashiraf will deputize him as the first and second assistant referee respectively. Atuhairwe Joyce will be the fourth official while Kizito Rahuman will serve as the referee assessor.

Match Coverage:

Although the game will be televised, our social media channels will relay minute to minute text commentary during play time. A match report and highlights will follow shortly.

Twitter: @bulfc1

Facebook: Bul Football Club – Jinja

Instagram: bulfc

You Tube: BUL FC TV