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MATCH PREVIEW: BUL FC TRAVEL TO BUSOGA UNITED

Friday March 25

Uganda Premier League

Kick Off: 4PM

The Eastern Giants make the short trip to the city centre to face Busoga United at Kakindu stadium for what will be the third meeting of the sides this season.

We go there on the back of a hard fought 4-3 penalty shoot out victory away to Bright Stars in the round of 16 of Uganda Cup on Tuesday but our hosts come into the game on the back of a 2-0 loss away to table leaders Vipers SC.

**BULFC players posing for a line up photo**

BUL has two wins in as many games against Abbey Kikomeko’s side this campaign and that’s something the Eastern Giants will be looking to extend at Kakindu on Tuesday.

BUL FC ran out 5-0 winners in the first league meeting at Kyabazinga stadium in December last year before the two neighbors were paired in Uganda Cup, with the Eastern Giants taking command of the contest with a 3-0 win.

If previous games are anything to go by, this one could be another close encounter.

With the hosts having two wins and a draw from their last four and continually pushing their quest for survival, and BUL very much in the contest for a top four spot, it certainly has the makings of a good game despite Busoga being located in the 13th place on the table, nine positions and 15 points adrift of the Eastern Giants.

Our hosts can only count six wins to their name after drawing three games and losing 12 to collect 21 points.

Whilst Alex Isabirye’s men have put up impressive performances this campaign, with a 4th place and 36 points there to show for their ten wins, six draws and five losses from 21 matches.

This clash represents the 13th meeting between the two Jinja clubs. Victory for BUL FC will draw them level on points with third placed URA.

Team News

Goalkeeper Saidi Keni is the only absentee for tomorrow’s showdown as confirmed by team manager Alex Isabirye. He is still nursing a knee injury. The rest of the players are in the right state to play.

The manager also shared his thoughts about the game.

Team Manager Isabirye:

“We won them 3-0 at Kakindu in Uganda Cup but I expect tomorrow’s game to be different. They are fighting relegation but we also want to finish strongly, either in second or third place.”

“So, the game will not be an easy one but we have been training well, my players are ready and we expect to win this game.”

Simon Peter Oketch expressed the team’s readiness and desire to win the game, stating that, “we are well prepared as players for tomorrow’s game,” and also called upon our fans to flock to Kakindu to cheer on the team.

Last time out

March 22, 2022

Bright Stars 2(3)-2(4) BUL FC

Penalty shoot outs were needed to separate the Eastern Giants from Bright Stars at round of 16 of the Uganda Cup. Karim Ndugwa scored a brace but it was not enough as Derrick Were and Nelson Senkatuka scored for their side to level the game at different intervals in regular time.

On target for BUL FC in the shoot out were Richard Wandyaka, Ibrahim Mugulusi, Ibrahim Kazindula, and Aggrey Madoi. Nelson Senkatuka, Ibrahim Kasinde and Meddie Kyeyune scored for Bright Stars.

Head to Head

P12 W4 D5 L3

This fixture has produced 12 meetings between the two teams in all competitions, resulting into four wins for BUL, three victories for Busoga and five draws.

Previous Meeting

February 25, 2022

Karim Ndugwa’s first half double and Walter Ochora’s last minute goal ensured BUL FC advanced to the round of 16 of the Stambic Uganda Cup in our last meeting with Busoga United.

Richard Ayiko delivered an inviting cross in the box for Ndugwa to head in on 23 minutes, he would score a penalty 14 minutes later to double our lead. Ochora then capitalised on a defensive lapse late on in the second half to score our third and seal the victory. The win earned the Eastern Giants a place in the last 16 of the Uganda Cup.

Last four encounters

December 08, 2020

Busoga United 1-3 BUL FC

April 24, 2021

BUL FC 0-1 Busoga United

December 07, 2021

BUL FC 5-0 Busoga United

February 25, 2022

Busoga United 0-3 BUL FC

Match facts

BUL FC have won three times, drawn four and lost three games in ten (10) away matches.

Isabirye’s men have scored 40 goals this term, 17 of them have come on the road.

The Eastern Giants have lost once in their past five league matches, winning three and drawing the other.

But they haven’t won away from home in the league since the turn of the year, with the last victory coming against Tooro United on December 10, 2021.

And they count only two clean sheets away from home, a 2-0 win over Onduparaka at the end of October last year in the league and the 3-0 Uganda Cup win against Busoga United.

BUL have won their last two meetings with Busoga United, winning 5-0 in December last year and 3-0 in February 2022.

The Eastern Giants have also lost once in their past six visits to Busoga United, winning two and sharing points on three occasions. David Bagoole and Lawrence Tezikya scored for Busoga in their 2-1 win on February 01, 2020. Musa Walangalira got the consolation goal for BUL.

This derby has produced 28 goals since 2016, 17 of them scored by BUL FC.

The ties involving these two teams have produced at least a goal except on two occasions – the barren stalemates of September 2016 and March 2017.

Busoga United have won three, drawn two and lost five home matches this campaign.

But they have lost once in their past four league matches, winning two games, drawing one, and keeping three clean sheets across them

Since turning to Kakindu stadium in February for their home matches, the team has lost only one league game from there.

But they have not found a goal in their last two outings.

Match Officials:

Komakech Charles will be the man in the center. Happy Badru and Aweko Kevin will be his deputies as the first and second assistant referee. Ochom Joseph will serve as the fourth official while Adipo Catherine will act as the referee assessor.

How to Follow

This derby will not be cast live on television but our fans can follow all the action with our text updates on our various media platforms.

Facebook page – BUL Football Club-Jinja

Twitter – @bulfc1

UG CUP: BUL FC PLAY BRIGHT STARS AT THE ROUND OF 16

Tuesday March 22.

Kavumba Recreation Grounds

Kick Off: 3PM

BUL football club and Bright Stars convene again at Kavumba recreation grounds this Tuesday, just Ten days after their Uganda Premier league meeting at the same venue, for their Uganda Cup round of 16 battle.

Bright Stars scored three unanswered goals in that last face off through Ibrahim Kasinde, Joseph Janjali and Methodius Jungu as Simon Mugerwa’s side got the better of the Eastern Giants.

**Walter Ochora battlng Richard Wandyaka in training**

But in what will be the first ever clash between the two sides in Uganda Cup, BUL are hoping to fare better than their fellow UPL side in this contest.

The Eastern Giants recovered well from the March 11 defeat with a 2-0 win over Tooro United, while Bright Stars were victims of 1-0 loss to Arua Hill last time out.

It has been nine victories for the hosts, and three wins for BUL FC in 18 meetings since 2013. Six have been draws, and with a quarter final slot in a nose’s distance, the Eastern Giants are focused on putting a stop on Bright Stars’ dominance in this fixture.

To reach this level, Bright Stars eliminated Free Stars 7-6 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in normal time to progress to the round of 32 where they beat KCCA FC 1-0 at Lugogo.

Marvin Youngman scored for them that all important goal.

Karim Ndugwa scored a brace, and Walter Ochora poked in the third goal as BUL knocked out Busoga United 3-0 at Kakindu stadium in the round of 32.

Team News:

Manager Alex Isabirye has confirmed Ibrahim Mugulusi and Jerome Kirya have fully recovered and they are fit to play, meaning he now has a full squad at his disposal.

**Manager Alex with his technical team**

Isabirye also shared his thoughts about the game

“We know what it means to win tomorrow’s game because it’s the only one we have.“

“This is a knockout competition and we lost 3-0 to Bright Stars in the league but we have been training to see that we get the best result out of this game.”

“The players are now ready and I believe we can win the game.”

MATCH REPORT: BUL FC 2-0 TOORO UNITED

BUL football club have rolled back to the fourth position on the Uganda Premier League table after a 2-0 victory over Tooro United on Friday.

**BUL FC starting line up against Tooro united**

Simon Peter Oketch and Ibrahim Nsimbe scored the goals in the second half for the Eastern Giants as they moved to 36 points after 21 matches.

In the first half, BUL piled the pressure on their visitors but found it hard to go beyond Tooro’s deep lying and compact defensive line.

They came close in the second minute when Karim Ndugwa played into the path of Reagan Kalyowa but the youngster shot over the bar from inside the box.

Just a few moments later, Oketch spotted the run of Ndugwa in Tooro’s goal mouth and the forward played a cross cutting ball but Rashid Lubega cleared before Ndugwa had a boot on it.

**Simon Peter Oketch celebrating after scoring**

The Eastern Giants continued dominating the proceedings and they came close again on the 35th minute when Nsimbe calmed the ball on his chest inside the box before executing a volley but his effort went over the bar, and a minute later, the forward latched onto a long through ball from Ibrahim Kazindula but the Simon Mawiya in Tooro’s goal rushed off his line and grabbed it.

Tooro United struggled to create chances and had a few sniffs at goal in the opening half. Muhammed Ssenoga found his way into the box and sent a shot that forced goal keeper John Okurut to fumble before the rearguards cleared far.

Rashid Lubega shot straight to the goalkeeper in the 26th minute before Ssenoga failed to connect with an inviting cross in the box at half an hour.

**Ibrahim Nsimbe and Simon Peter Oketch celebrating Nsimbe,s goal.**

Ndugwa thought he had given BUL FC the lead one minute from the halftime whistle after finding the net with a low shot but the referee whistled for a foul in the build up.

The Eastern Giants were off to a hunt after the break and broke the deadlock with just four minutes into the second half.

Oketch zoomed into the box after picking a delightful ball from Nsimbe before slamming the ball home in the 49th minute.

Alex Isabirye’s side sealed the victory six minutes after the hour when Nsimbe scored his eighth goal of the campaign with a fine effort from inside the box.

With a 2-0 lead, BUL managed the game untill the final whistle.

The next engagement will be a tie with Bright Stars at the round of 16 of the Stanbic Uganda Cup on Tuesday next week at Kavumba recreation grounds.

**BUL FC players applauding fans after the game**

Starting XI:

John Okurut, Douglas Muganga, Walter Ochora, Richard Ayiko, George Kasonko (Ibrahim Mugulusi), Ibrahim Kazindula (Pascal Ngobi 82′), Simon Peter Oketch (Jerome Kirya 82′), Reagan Kalyowa (Hillary Onek), Martin Aprem, Ibrahim Nsimbe (Richard Wandyaka), Karim Ndugwa.

Unused Substitutes:

Emmanuel Kalyowa, Aggrey Madoi

MATCH PREVIEW: BUL FC HOST TOORO UNITED

Friday March 18

Uganda Premier League

Kick off: 2PM

We return to Kyabazinga stadium to take on Tooro United this Friday at 2PM. BUL FC head into this fixture on the back of a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Bright Stars last time out, but the Eastern Giants have not registered successive losses this campaign.

**BUL FC starting line up against Bright stars**

Alex Isabirye’s men have put up a splendid show this season, currently occupying the fifth place after posting nine wins, six draws and five losses to count 33 points from 20 matches, and they are desperate to reclaim the fourth spot after being leapfrogged by Arua Hill SC who won their match day 21 game on Tuesday.

It has been a displeasing campaign for Tooro United. Ibrahim Kirya’s men have won the fewest top-flight games (three), and their 14 defeats is the highest in the league.

They went down 4-2 to Police in their last trip in the league but won an important game last Friday.

**BUL FC players warming up for a league game**

Shock victory at home to league leaders Vipers SC could have provided Tooro with a serious dose of momentum, but they have not been helped by their three wins and three draws as they still remain at the UPL log base with just 12 points from 20 outings.

This encounter will be the 15th meeting between the two teams since 2013.

Team News

Goalkeeper – Saidi Keni is still in the treatment room with a knee injury but the game will mark the return of wingback Hillary Onek and midfield schemer Ibrahim Mugulusi from their respective injuries.

Therefore, Alex Isabirye has a big pool of players to choose from for this clash.

What they said:

Team manager Alex Isabirye:

“The game will not be easy because playing a team fighting relegation sometimes is hard. They won against table leaders – Vipers SC in their last game but we are at home and we need the three points.”

Simon Peter Oketch:

“We were not happy with the way we lost to Bright Stars in our last game. But we have got enough preparations, the coaches have given us all what is necessary to win the game, and it is now upon us as players to execute the work plan to get the three points.”

Last time out

Friday March 11

Bright Stars 3-0 BUL FC

Our decent four match unbeaten streak was halted the last time out in Kavumba. The Eastern Giants were beaten 3-0 by Bright Stars.

Goals from Ibrahim Kasinde, Joseph Janjali and Methodius Jungu for the hosts condemned us to the fifth defeat this term.

Head to Head

P14 W6 D1 L7

Since 2013, this fixture has produced 14’meetings between the two sides, resulting into six wins for BUL, seven victories for Tooro United and one draw.

Previous Meeting

December 10, 2021

Tooro United 1-3 BUL FC

Buhinga stadium hosted the previous encounter between the two sides. The hosts dived into an early lead through Marvin Oshaba’s penalty on the 7th minute but BUL FC would turn the tables going forward to subdue Tooro United.

Ibrahim Kazindula scored at a quarter hour to equalize for the Eastern Giants, Walter Ochora put us in the lead on 28 minutes before Ibrahim Nsimbe added the third goal for Alex Isabirye’s side on the stroke of halftime, and that is all was required to walk away with all the three points from Fort Portal.

Last four encounters

December 10, 2021

Tooro United 1-3 BUL FC

October 11, 2019

Tooro United 1-2 BUL FC

March 26, 2019

Tooro United 1-0 BUL FC

October 02, 2018

BUL FC 0-1 Tooro United

Match facts

BUL FC have won six games, drawn and lost two a piece in 10 home matches this campaign.

They have seen a return of 21 goals and seven only conceded across those games.

Isabirye’s men have also scored in all but two games at Kyabazinga stadium, a 1-0 defeat to Express in October and 0-0 draw with Bright Stars in December last year

The Eastern Giants have lost once in the past eight home matches with that misfortune coming in February against Vipers SC.

BUL FC have not lost to Tooro United since March 2019 ( Tooro United 1-0 BUL FC, March 26, 2019), with the last defeat at home to the visitors also occurring a year before.

This fixture has produced 37 goals from the 14 meetings, with BUL scoring 17 of that bulk.

And has failed to produce a winner once, a 0-0 stalemate in 2015.

Tooro United have not won away from home this season in the league, collecting one point only in 10 matches following a 2-2 draw with defending champions Express in February.

Goals have not also gone their side as they have scored eight only and swallowed a whooping 30 in the ten outings.

Overall, Tooro has conceded 47 goals in 20 matches, the highest in the league.

But they have lost just once in their last five matches, winning two and drawing the other two games as well.

Match officials:

Turyamureeba Paul will be the man in the center. Okello Dick and Atuhaire Dorcus as his first and second assistant referee respectively. Naigaga Habiba will be the fourth official while Mawanda Haruna will be match assessor.

How to follow the game:

The game will be live on Sanyuka television but BUL FC communication channels will also provide comprehensive coverage of this clash.

Minute-by-minute updates will be available on all our social media platforms

Facebook: Bul Football Club –Jinja

Twitter: @bulfc1

Instagram: bulfc1

MATCH REPORT: BRIGHT STARS 3-0 BUL FC

BUL football club were beaten 3-0 by Bright Stars at Kavumba recreation centre in the Uganda Premier League on Friday.

Ibrahim Kasinde scored in the first half for the home side before Joseph Janjali and Methodius Jjungu scored a goal each in the second half to seal the win for Bright Stars.

Teenage goalkeeper John Okurut made his senior debut, starting in goal for the Eastern Giants ahead of Emmanuel Kalyowa who was returning from injury.

The home side were off to a good start at Kavumba, dominating the chances. Ssemayange and Yasin Mugume came close in early minutes of the contest, while Emmanuel Loki had a chance three minutes after half an hour but neither could get the ball in the net.

They ultimately got into the lead on 38 minutes. Kasinde beat Okurut from the penalty mark with a low drive to the bottom right side of the net following a foul on Marvin Youngman in the box by Ibrahim Kazindula.

**BUL FC players warming for the game at Kavumba Recreation grounds**

The Eastern Giants couldn’t provide a response in the second half as Simon Peter Mugerwa’s side doubled their advantage.

Janjali picked the ball with in 28 yards, he dropped a shoulder before dispatching a shot into the net from out side the box just four minutes after the restart.

Manager Alex Isabirye called on the fresh legs of Ibrahim Nsimbe and Richard Wandyaka, replacing Martin Aprem and Umar Mukobe in that order a minute to the hour.

Their combination with Simon Peter Oketch and Karim Ndugwa upfront put the host’s defense to test, with the Eastern Giants earning a free kick in the 61st minute but Kazindula’s effort sailed over the bar.

Four minutes later, Janjali forced a save from Okurut with a hard shot from distance, and in the 80th minute, substitute Jjungu tucked the ball beyond Walter Ochora and the goalkeeper to score the third goal for his side as Bright Stars stamped authority onto the game, condemning BUL FC to the fifth loss of the season.

Despite the defeat, the Eastern Giants remained fourth on the UPL table rankings with 33 points after 20 matches. Next in line will be a clash with Tooro United at Kyabazinga stadium next week on Friday.

Starting XI: John Okurut (G.K),Walter Ochora, Richard Ayiko, Douglas Muganga, George Kasonko, Ibrahim Kazindula, Simon Peter Oketch, Umar Mukobe (Richard Wandyaka 59′), Reagan Kalyowa (Ambrose Kirya 72′), Martin Aprem (Ibrahim Nsimbe 59′), Karim Ndugwa

Unused substitutes:

Emmanuel Kalyowa
Aggrey Madoi
Owen Mukisa
Pascal Ngobi

MATCH PREVIEW: BRIGHT STARS VS BUL FC

Friday March 11

Uganda Premier League

Kavumba Recreation Grounds

Kick off: 2PM

BUL football club will square off against Bright Stars on Friday afternoon looking to further strengthen their hold of the fourth position in the Uganda Premier League standings.

**BUL FC players posing for a group photo before kickoff**

While the Eastern Giants head to Kavumba possessing a four-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, second from the bottom-placed Bright Stars have won once in their last six league outings.

The reverse fixture between the two in December ended in a goal less stalemate.

Holding the 5th best record on the road in UPL this season (13 points collected away from home), the Eastern Giants face the side which has one of the worst record in the league, Bright Stars have three league victories only this term and they have scored the fewest goals at home(4) in nine matches.

17 points and ten positions separate the two teams, BUL FC is currently fourth on the table with 33 points after their nine wins, six draws and four losses in 19 matches.

But the hosts can only be too good for the 15th place with 16 points to show from their paper weight three victories, seven draws and nine losses.

For the Eastern Giants, confidence will be sky high following a 5-1 thrashing of UPDF last time out but Bright Stars is one of the few teams that have often been stubborn to Alex Isabirye’s side.

This Friday’s clash will be the 18th league meeting between the two sides.

Team News

Goalkeeper Saidi Keni will miss this game after he sustained a knee injury against UPDF FC. The fixture has also come too soon for Ibrahim Mugulusi while Lawrence Kasadha as well has joined them in the treatment room because of malaria. Wingback Hillary Onek will be subjected to a late fitness test but the rest of the players are available for selection

What they said:

Assistant Coach – Richard Bakabulindi:

**Coach Baker Kasule during pre match conference**

This one won’t be an easy game. BUL FC is in the top four and Bright Stars are in the last three positions on the table. Therefore, they are playing for survival but we also want to maintain our winning run.
This means they may bring a hard game to us but I believe we shall play our game to win.

Pascal Ngobi:

We are so much prepared for Bright Stars. The game ended 0-0 the last time we played against them but we identified the mistakes we did against them then and therefore, we are now good to go.

Last time out

Tuesday, March 1, 2022.

BUL FC 5-1 UPDF FC

Simon Peter Oketch scored twice as Karim Ndugwa, Ibrahim Kazindula and Richard Wandyaka were also on the score sheet for the Eastern Giants in a goal fest action at Kyabazinga stadium last time out. Walter Ochora scored in his own net to hand UPDF a goal.

In form Ndugwa found the net as early as the 8th minute before the forward turned provider 13 minutes later for Oketch’s first goal on the day.

UPDF pulled one back through Ochora’s own goal but Kazindula restored our two goal cushion from the penalty spot following a foul on Martin Aprem in the area.

Oketch popped up with another beauty to complete his double before Wandyaka hit in the last nail in the additional minutes after the regular 90 as BUL FC walked out 5-1 winners to stay 4th on the table with 33 points.

Head to Head

P17 W3 D6 L8

17 league matches have been played since 2013 between the two teams, BUL has three wins to Bright Stars’ eight while six have been draws.

Previous Meeting

Friday December 17, 2021

BUL FC 0-0 Bright Stars

This Friday sees BUL FC and Bright Stars meet again, but coincidentally, the two teams last met on a Friday in December last year at Kyabazinga stadium in game that had a few chances.

Nothing could separate the two sides after the 90 minutes but the Eastern Giants were unfortunate not to pocket the three points after Richard Wandyaka’s spot kick was saved by Simon Tamale in Bright Stars goal on the 38th minute.

Marvin Youngman chose to shoot wide with the goal at his mercy before Joseph Janjali hit the crossbar in the first half.

Neither team could find a goal after the break and the points were shared in Jinja.

Last four meetings

January 10, 2020

Bright Stars 1-0 BUL FC

March 10, 2021

Bright Stars 0-2 BUL FC

May 15, 2021

BUL FC 0-1 Bright Stars

December 17, 2021

BUL FC 0-0 Bright Stars

Match Facts

This fixture has seen 17 league games since 2013 and 27 goals have been scored across the course of those games, with BUL FC netting 13 times.

The ties involving these two teams have produced at least a goal except on three occasions – the barren draws of April 2014, March 2016 and December 2021

The Eastern Giants count three victories over their hosts in eight years but two came at their backyard.

BUL haven’t lost in their last four games, winning three and drawing the other.

They have this term won three games, drawn four and lost twice from foreign territories.

Away from home, the Eastern Giants have scored 20 goals and conceded 15 in all competitions, meaning that Isabirye’s men have scored in all their ten trips this season.

Their last four games have seen a return of 12 goals from all competitions.

Meanwhile the Eastern Giants haven’t won away from home in the league since the turn of the year, with the last victory coming against Tooro United on December 10, 2021.

But they have lost only two times on their travels this season, a 4-3 loss to Wakiso Giants in early January and a 3-1 defeat to KCCA FC in October last year

Isabirye’s side count only two clean sheets on the road however, a 2-0 win over Onduparaka at the end of October last year in the league and the recent 3-0 win against Busoga United in Uganda Cup.

BUL FC’s last victory against Bright Stars was exactly one year ago on March 10, 2021. Deogracious Ojok and Robert Mukongotya scored as the Eastern Giants ran out 2-0 winners.

Bright Stars have won only three games from their 19 matches and two of their victories have been home wins.

They have lost once in their last four league matches but they have won on only two occasions in their last 13 games though.

They have scored in each of their last three matches but they have managed only one goal in their last three home fixtures.

Ten points collected from Kavumba Recreation Center this campaign has been a result of their two wins, four draws and three losses from their nine home clashes.

Four goals have been scored and seven conceded across those matches.

Bright Stars have defeated only two teams in the league at the time of writing – SC Villa (twice) and Tooro United, sides that they are competing with for relegation.

Match Officials

Referee Nabadda Shamila has been appointed to be in the center on Friday.

She will be assisted by Marex Nkumbi and Nassolo Elizabeth as the first and second assistant referees respectively.

Akoyi Anna will serve as the fourth official while Mawanda Haruna will be their assessor

The official BUL FC communication channels will provide comprehensive coverage of the game. Minute by minute updates will be available on all our social media platforms

Facebook: Bul Football Club –Jinja

Twitter: @bulfc1

Instagram: bulfc1

MATCH PREVIEW: BUL FC VS UPDF FC.

Tuesday March 01, 2022

Uganda Premier League

Kyabazinga Stadium

Kick off: 4PM

Fresh from advancing to the last 16 of the Stanbic Uganda Cup, BUL football club return to Uganda premier league action with the visit of UPDF FC to Kyabazinga stadium on Tuesday afternoon.

The Eastern Giants come into the game off the back of an away victory over Busoga United last week and will hope to build upon an improved run of form, as shown by the incredible positive results in their past three matches.

BUL have lost just once in their last five matches and they are currently fourth in the table with 30 points to show for their eight wins, six draws and four losses so far this season.

**BUL FC players celebrating after scoring.**

UPDF, who have not won in their last nine league games, are currently 9th in UPL, eight points behind the Eastern Giants. The army side has won five, drawn seven and lost six of their 18 matches.

UPDF have not actually won in the top flight league since a 2-1 success over Bright Stars in December last year, while they have scored just three times in their last four league fixtures.

This will be the tenth meeting between the two sides. Victory for BUL will not cause any change in our league standings but the team will cut the points gap from third placed URA FC to one.

Team News

In his pre match briefing, Alex Isabirye confirmed that Pascal Ngobi and Ibrahim Mugulusi will not be involved in tomorrow’s game after they sustained injuries against Busoga United last Friday.

Jerome Kirya and Hillary Onek remain sidelined for this fixture.

What they said

Team manager Alex Isabirye:

“It’s not good to play against a team that has gone long with out winning. UPDF may make the game hard for us but we are going to work hard to win because we are also not ranking well on the table.”

“There are four players who are out of this game because of injuries but we have suitable replacements for them.”

“We are still teaching our players to win game after game which I believe will help us achieve something by next season. Therefore, I am confident we can win the game with the players available although they are a good team but we can play against them and also win the game because we are well prepared.”

Simon Peter Oketch :

“UPDF FC is a strong team but we are at home and well prepared to win the game. Our fans should come and give us the necessary support tomorrow.”

Head to Head

P9 W4 D1 L4

There have been nine matches between the Eastern Giants and the army side.

The fixture has seen four victories for each side and a draw since 2015.

Last time out

February 25, 2022.

Busoga United 0-3 BUL FC ( Uganda Cup)

BUL football club qualified to the round of 16 of the Uganda Cup after defeating Busoga United 3-0 at Kakindu stadium last Friday.

Karim Ndugwa bagged a brace, with his first goal coming on the 23rd minute before he added the second goal thirteen minutes later.

Walter Ochora swept in the third goal on the stroke of full-time to seal the victory that ensured BUL FC booked a place in the last 16 of this year’s edition of the stanbic Uganda Cup.

Previous Meeting

December 23, 2021

UPDF FC 1-1 BUL FC

The two sides shared the points for the first time in nine meetings since 2015.

Musa Esenu scored on 12 minutes to give BUL FC the halftime lead following a through pass from Ibrahim Mugulusi.

UPDF could have equalised on the stroke of halftime but Ivan Ahimbisibwe over hit his shot and it went wild. He later made amends when he received the ball from Herbert Abantu to equalise for his side on the 79th minute.

Simon Peter Oketch was denied by Brian Bwete in UPDF’s goal before Saidi Keni made a late one-on-one save from Rogers Mugisha for each team to march away with a point.

Previous four encounters

April 24, 2018

UPDF FC 0-3 BUL FC

December 12, 2020

UPDF FC 2-1 BUL FC

April 20, 2021

BUL FC 4-3 UPDF FC

December 23, 2021

UPDF FC 1-1 BUL FC

Match Facts

This fixture has produced a winner in eight of the nine meetings since 2015, and 26 goals have been scored across those games, with BUL FC having a lion share of 14.

BUL FC have won five games and drawn and lost two a piece to collect 17 points at home this term

The Eastern Giants have conceded 21 goals this season with only six happening at Kyabazinga stadium

Isabirye’s men are unbeaten in their last three matches in all competitions, winning two and drawing the other.

They have also scored in each of their last eight fixtures in all competitions, with 17 goals there to show for that feat.

BUL is also unbeaten in their last two meetings with UPDF

UPDF FC have managed to gather only six points away from home after winning once, drawing twice and posting five losses from their nine trips this campaign.

Their only win on the road was a 4-2 victory against rock bottom side Tooro United in November last year.

Though unbeaten in their last four games, they have not been able to win any of their last immediate nine consecutive matches. Their last victory was a 2-1 home win over Bright Stars in early December last year.

They have scored 12 goals and conceded a whopping 20 across those games.

Match Officials

Waiswa Muzamiru has been appointed to handle this encounter. Mafumu Mustapha and Oriada Hakim as his first and second assistant respectively. Kavuma Vincent will be the fourth official while Batte Dennis the referee assessor.

Match Coverage

Text updates of the game will run on all our social media platforms. The match report will be available on our website and the match highlights will be uploaded on our YouTube channel

MATCH PREVIEW: BUSOGA UNITED VS BUL FC.

Stanbic Uganda Cup

Fri. February 25

Kakindu stadium

Kick off – 4PM

The Stanbic Uganda cup returns presenting BUL football club with a short trip to the city center this Friday afternoon.

**BUL FC players posing for a line up photo in the finals of Uganda cup last season**

Busoga United lie in wait at Kakindu stadium in the round of 32.

BUL will be welcomed to their former home ground in what will be the 12th competitive fixture between the two clubs. With the previous games coming in Uganda premier league, this will be the first meeting between the two sides in Uganda Cup.

Alex Isabirye’s side are chasing what could be another good run in Uganda cup following last season’s heroics where they lost two games only in the competition, reaching the first ever final where they lost to Vipers SC.

**BUL FC players on finals of last edition.**

They progressed to this stage at the expense of Bundimasoli United after the fourth division team failed to show up for the round of 64 fixture in Bundibugyo.

It is a promising season for BUL FC at the time of writing, as they sit with respect in fourth place in the league with 30 points as a result of their eight wins, six draws and four losses from 18 matches this term.

The Eastern Giants come off a competitive two all draw with Arua Hill SC last time out in the league, thanks to Simon Peter Oketch who scored a penalty late on to force a draw.

Busoga United are currently entangled in a survival battle with three other teams, they are just a point above the red zone in 13th position with 17 points.

From 18 matches, our Friday hosts have won four times only and lost a whopping ten.

But they have won two games and lost once since making the switch to Kakindu, and avoided conceding any goals in the two victories.

To reach this stage, they bundled out Kisugu FC with a 4-1 scoreline in the round of 64.

The last fixture between BUL FC and Busoga came in December last year in UPL with the Eastern Giants running out as 5-0 winners at Kyabazinga stadium, and their last visit to Busoga United also saw them come out 3-1 winners in December of 2020 at Fufa technical center.

Team News

Isabirye this time has no suspension to contend with besides the duo of Jerome Kirya and Hillary Onek who are still nursing injuries. The rest of the players are available for selection.

What they said

Team manager Alex Isabirye:

Busoga United has improved so much because they have won twice from three games of the second round, including a 1-0 victory over defending champions Express, a side that we lost to by the same margin.

And there is no weak team in Uganda Cup, therefore, I think tomorrow’s game will be a different one even though we beat them 5-0 in the league.

Their morale is now up after beating Express in their last game but we shall handle them as one of the biggest teams as we try to win game by game and I believe we shall get good results.

Saidi Keni:

We expect to win tomorrow’s game against Busoga United because the coaches have corrected our mistakes we made in Arua and we are now well prepared. I pray we make a clean sheet because I want to win this season’s golden glove.

Head to Head

Historically, BUL have had a relatively balanced head-to-head record with Busoga. 11 meetings between the sides since 2016 have provided three BUL FC wins, three Busoga wins and five draws.

The fixture has produced 25 goals, and BUL has a lion share of 14.

Match Coverage

The game will not be available on televisions but our fans world wide will be able to follow the game through our social media channels:

Facebook -Bul Football Club-Jinja

Instagram -bulfc1

Twitter – @bulfc1

JOHN OKURUT: I FEEL LIKE I WANT TO BURST

The young goalkeeper made the senior bench on Wednesday against Vipers SC.

Goalkeeper John Okurut was included in the senior match day squad for the Vipers game on Wednesday to deputise Emmanuel Kalyowa who had replaced the suspended Saidi Keni in goal.

**Young star John Okurut smiling after training**

Manager Alex Isabirye handed Okurut a three year contract in January this year and promoted him to the senior side after a good showing in training.

He joined BUL FC’s junior team in the 2019/20 season that was halted by COVID 19.

The young shot-stopper admitted that he couldn’t even believe that he was being called up to the first-team picture for this season.

“I feel like I want to burst! I want to shout loudest. I don’t know when I will be on the pitch but it’s an advantage for me to be on the senior team.”

“I didn’t expect it because I had even not passed through all our junior teams but from U-17 to the senior side is wow.”

“For real, I am excited at the moment and i believe my hard work has led me to this.”

Okurut is now training with one of the national team goalkeepers – Saidi Keni and the experienced Emmanuel Kalyowa.

“These guys are friendly and they’re helping me to improve during training by telling me what to do as a goal keeper and that is giving me courage.”

“I am no longer the junior team goalkeeper I was before. I feel so previlaged that I can now perform.”

He continued, “I look up to them for whatever they do on and off the pitch because they are professional goalkeepers.”

There are several junior team players that have recently signed their first contracts at BUL FC and then promoted to the senior side, including Owen Mukisa , Allan Kiggundu, Reagan Kalyowa, and now Okurut, one of the biggest propects at Kyabazinga stadium has joined that circle.

MATCH REPORT: BUL FC 2-0 WAKISO GIANTS

BUL football club beat Wakiso Giants 2-0 at Kyabazinga stadium on Tuesday.

**BUL FC starting line up against Wakiso Giants**

Richard Wandyaka and Simon Peter Oketch goals ensured Alex Isabirye’s side bounced back to winning ways after going three games without victory.

The match was played in a live atmosphere amidst roars from fans as the two teams shown intent to win the game with end to end display.

Wakiso Giants were the first to get an opening in the game when Sharif Kimbowa saw his shot go wide after an exchange with Frank Ssebuufu in the opening minutes.

Ssebuufu then had a go in the six yard box just a few moments later but his effort did not trouble Saidi Keni in BUL FC’s goal.

At the other end, Ibrahim Mugulusi swiftly swung a cornor into the box but Umar Mukobe’s tame header was an easy catch for Samson Kirya.

BUL continued to press Wakiso Giants in their own half and in the 9th minute, Mugulusi was played into the box by Wandyaka before Grant Matsiko cleared for a corner.

Eventually, the Purple Sharks cracked and Wandyaka opened the scoring with a header on 18 minutes.

Frank Ssebuufu often made Richard Ayiko busy but his artistry didn’t yield any clear cut chance as the steely Walter Ochora and workaholic Douglas Muganga kept BUL’s rearguard tight

On the 36th minutes, the Eastern Giants had the chance to double the lead with Karim Ndugwa shooting slightly above the bar.

In a bid to limit the damage, Wakiso Giant’s Alex Gitta called for an early change. Rahmat Senfuka replaced Ibrahim Kasule four minutes to the end of the first half.

BUL picked from where they had stopped in the second half but couldn’t register another goal before the 90th minute though.

**BUL FC player celebrating Simon Peter Oketch goal.**

The Eastern Giants had a rare chance in the 55 minute, Wandyaka picked up Ndugwa in the box but the later missed by an inch.

Alex Isabirye thereafter made some tweaks to the team. He brought on Simon Peter Oketch in the place of Martin Aprem on the 78th minute, and Owen Mukisa for Mugulusi as Ibrahim Nsimbe took up the place for Ndugwa

Wakiso Giants got the opportunity to equalize in the 80th minute but Rahmat Senfuka saw his shot saved by Keni.

BUL FC finally got their second goal in the 90th minute with substitute Oketch scoring a wonder from the midfield to ensure the Eastern Giants carry the day.

**Simon Peter Oketch celebrating his goal with teammates.**

The team has now reclaimed the 4th place on the table with 29 points after 17 matches. The next game is a trip to Arua Hill SC on Wednesday.

Starting XI Vs Wakiso Giants

Saidi Keni (G.K)

Douglas Muganga
Richard Ayiko
Walter Ochora
George Kasonko
Pascal Ngobi
Richard Wandyaka
Ibrahim Mugulusi (Owen Mukisa)
Umar Mukobe
Martin Aprem (Simon Peter Oketch 78′)
Karim Ndugwa (Ibrahim Ndugwa)

Unused Substitutes:

John Okurut (G.K)
Lawrence Kasadha
Reagan Kalyowa
Aggrey Madoi