Uganda Premier League - BUL FC

MATCH REPORT: Police 0-0 BUL FC

BUL FC kicked off their Uganda premier league season 2024/25 with 0-0 draw against Police FC on Monday.

The game saw few clear-cut chances in the opening twenty minutes with both sides holding it tight at the back.

BUL however crafted the first chance of the contest at Kavumba Recreation Centre when Ramz Kawooya had a shot on goal in the 23rd minute.

Three minutes later, Police came close and almost took the lead through Gerald Ogweti but the forward was denied by goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa’s double save.

The hosts were then reduced to ten men midway the first half after Ogweti was sent off for fouling Walter Ochora.

Coach Abbey Kikomeko turned to his bench for fresh legs in the second half, Ibrahim Orit was subbed off for Lawrence Tezikya who added more fire power upfront.

But against the run of play, Police threatened through Denis Kalanzi who pounced a dangerous header wide off Allan Bukenya’s free kick into the area – in the 53rd minute.

BUL continued to push for a breakthrough given their numerical advantage, but yet again, Edward Kasibante in Police’s goal denied Ramz Kawooya at the hour mark.

At this point, the Eastern Giants were in total control of the game. However, the much needed goal hadn’t come, so, the coach called for more changes.

Ibrahim Mugulusi and Amos Kirya replaced George Kasonko and Reagan Kalyowa one minute after the hour.

But despite dominating possession, BUL couldn’t find the breakthrough as they were forced to settle for a point in their opening game of the campaign.

**BUL FC starting line up against Police**

Starting XI:

Joel Mutakubwa, Hillary Onek, Nicholas Mwere, Walter Ochora, Najib Fesali, George Kasonko (Ibrahim Mugulusi), Ramz Kawooya, Isaac Wagoina (Martin Aprem), Ibrahim Orit (Lawrence Tezikya), Reagan Kalyowa (Amos Kirya), Dickson Mataama (Yafeesi Mubiru)

Unused Substitutes:

John Okurut (GK), Adrian Isabirye (GK), Sowedi Lwenda, Benon Tahomera, Julius Barasa, Innocent Rwothomiyo, Swabir Mpasa

BUL FC DEFEND FUFA SUPER 8 TROPHY

In a thrilling finale, BUL FC emerged victorious against Vipers SC in the FUFA Super 8 final, winning 6-5 in a nail-biting penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw in 120 minutes of play at the MTN Omondi Stadium on September 1st, 2024.

The match saw both teams create scoring opportunities, with BUL FC’s Wagoina winning a free kick in the 3rd minute, only for Mwere’s effort to sail over the bar. Vipers SC’s Wadada came close in the 11th minute, but Joel’s incredible save denied him. George cleared a corner in the 32nd minute, while Kimera missed a tap-in for Vipers in the 46th minute. Wagoina had a one-on-one chance in the 48th minute, but Kiggundu saved the day for Vipers.

The match remained goalless after full time, sending it into extra time. Najib shot wide in the 103rd minute, while Mugulusi’s effort kissed the woodwork in the 108th minute. Tezikya was denied by Kiggundu in the same minute.

In the penalty shootout, BUL FC’s Wagoina, Lwenda, Tahomera, Mutakubwa, Tezikya, and Mugulusi all scored, while Vipers’ Luyima missed, securing BUL FC’s victory.

BUL FC will return to action on September 16th in the Startimes Uganda Premier League against Police FC at Kavumba Recreation Center at 4 pm.

Full Time Score

BUL FC 0(6) – 0(5) Vipers SC (penalties)

Venue:

MTN Omondi Stadium

Competition:

FUFA Super 8 Final

Date:

September 1st, 2024

Time:

8 pm

STRIKER ANWARU MUSTAFA NTEGE JOINS BUL

Forward Anwaru Ntege has re-signed for BUL on a two-year contract from Vision FC of Rwanda, the club can announce.

Ntege, 29, featured for the Eastern Giants during 2020-2021 season.

He played a crucial role in Vision FC’s promotion to the Rwanda Premier League last season, lest we forget he also guided Ndejje University to the Uganda Premier League in 2017.

Ntege’s impressive football journey has now seen him play for several clubs including ; Ndejje University (2015-2019), URA FC (2019-2020), Busoga United (2021-2022), Express FC (2022-2023), and Vision FC (2023-2024).

“We are delighted to welcome Anwar back to BUL FC, his goal-scoring ability and experience will be invaluable to our team. We look forward to seeing him make a significant impact on the pitch,” said coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere.

Anwar Ntege expressed his excitement upon re-joining the Eastern Giants, saying;

“I’m happy to be back home and eager to contribute to the team’s success. I’ve grown as a player and now ready to score goals, and help BUL FC achieve its goals.”

His return has strengthened our attacking line and fans can expect an exciting season ahead.

Welcome back, Ntege!

UGANDAN MIDFIELD MAESTRO RAMZ KAWOOYA JOINS BUL FC

BUL FC is delighted to announce the signing of experienced midfielder Ramz Kawooya on a two-year contract. Kawooya makes the switch from Express FC, where he spent the 2023-2024 season.

The skilled midfielder boasts an impressive career, having played for several Swedish clubs, including Vaxjo United (2012-2016), Almeboda IF Inneryd (2017-2019), FK Karlskrona (2019-2021), and IF Nybro (2022-2023).

Kawooya’s outstanding form with IF Nybro earned him the prestigious Player of the Season award for 2022-2023. He has also received two call-ups to the Uganda national team, featuring against Guinea and Somalia.

“I’m thrilled to join BUL FC and already feeling at home. I’m impressed with the team’s ambitions, and I believe BUL FC is a team to watch. My move here will undoubtedly boost my career, and I’m eager to help the team achieve its goals. I promise to bring my expertise and leadership to the table, and I’m confident that together, we can achieve great things,” said Kawooya.

BUL FC’s management is ecstatic to have Kawooya on board, citing his leadership and skill as invaluable assets to the team. “Ramz is a fantastic addition to our squad. His experience and expertise will be crucial in our quest for success. He fits perfectly into our style of play, and we’ve been missing a player of his caliber,” said head coach Abbey Kikomeko.

With Kawooya’s signing, BUL FC is poised for a strong season. His presence is expected to bring stability and creativity to the midfield, and fans are eagerly anticipating his debut.

RONALD BARENTE RE-ELECTED AS BUL FC CHAIRMAN

The man who first won the chairmanship of the club in 2019, has once again won the trust of all the club members and will now serve his second term of four years as the club chairman after being re-elected unopposed on Thursday.

This milestone marks a significant endorsement of his leadership and vision for the club ever since he succeeded Alias Silver in that office.

Over the past four years, he has worked tirelessly to transform the Eastern Giants into a formidable force in Ugandan football.

BUL has achieved remarkable success under his stewardship – winning the Stanbic Uganda Cup in 2021, FUFA Juniors League (Eastern Region 2023), FUFA Juniors League National Championship and FUFA Super 8 in 2023.

His dedication, strategic thinking, and commitment to excellence have also earned him the respect and admiration of the club members, players and fans alike.

“I am thrilled for having been voted into office for another term of four years.Over the years, we have had tremendous success sportingly but challenges have also been here and there,” Mr. Barente said after being re-elected.

“We have however picked up valuable lessons from the challenges which will mark our progress going forward. For the success we have achieved, this will be the benchmark for what we want to achieve in the next four years.”

“With God on our side and together with all the stakeholders, we will propel this club to greater heights.”

Only Ugandans holding managerial positions as heads of department in BIDCO Uganda Limited, the sole sponsors of BUL FC, can contest for the position of club chairman. They also hold the rights to vote exclusively.

Mr. Barente is one of the longest serving employees of the company having worked for the edible oil manufacturers for more than 16 years now.

He is currently the company’s Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) manager overseeing operations in all the East African countries, Nigeria and Ghana.

As he begins his second term, the club looks forward to an exciting future, built on the foundations of hard work, teamwork, and a shared passion for football.

Congratulations, Chairman!

BUL FC SIGNS STRIKER YAFEESI MUBIRU

BUL FC is pleased to announce the signing of experienced striker Yafeesi Mubiru on a two-year contract from Sunrise FC of Rwanda.

Mubiru joins the club with a proven goal-scoring record, having played a key role in Sunrise FC’s promotion to the Rwanda Premier League in 2020.

The skillful forward spent four years with Sunrise, making significant contributions to the team’s success.

Prior to his stint in Rwanda, Mubiru had a notable career in Uganda – having featured for top-tier clubs such as Express FC, Bright Stars FC, Onduparaka FC, and Tooro United FC

“BUL FC is committed to building a strong and competitive team, and Yafeesi’s signing is a significant step in that direction, We believe his experience and goal-scoring ability will be a valuable asset to our attack” said coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere.

Mubiru expressed his excitement about joining BUL FC, saying; “I’m thrilled to be part of this ambitious team and look forward to contributing to the club’s success. BUL is a winning team with mission and vision which suits my ambitions too. Am here to help the team achieve its goals”.

ISAAC MUSIIMA SIGNS FOR BUL FC

BUL FC is thrilled to announce the signing of midfielder Isaac Musiima from Ntugasanze Football Club on a three-year contract.

The 21-year-old joins the club with an impressive track record, having scored 11 goals for Ntugasanze last season.

Musiima’s exceptional skills didn’t go unnoticed, as he also led Bulemezi to victory in the 2023 Masaza Cup and emerged as the top scorer in 2021 while featuring for Buwekula.

“I chose BUL FC because it’s a big team with big ambitions, and I’m an ambitious person with a winning mentality,The competition at BUL will help me become a better player, as I love competition. I’m here to add value to the club and win trophies,” Isaac Musiima said.

Head coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere said;

“Isaac is a very skilled and speedy midfielder who will add value to our team, With him on board, a lot of creativity should be expected in the midfield.”

PRE-MATCH: MAROONS VS BUL FC

FUFA Super 8 Tournament

Friday August 2, 2024

Maroons Vs BUL FC

St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

Time: 5pm

***BUL FC celebrating after winning the trophy last season***

Defending champions BUL FC are set to face Maroons FC in the opening match of the FUFA Super 8 tournament tomorrow at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. The Eastern Giants, who won the title last season, are confident of a positive start in this campaign.

BUL FC boasts a strong squad, bolstered by the signings of Bakali Magumba, Thomas Ochungo, Najib Fesali, Dickson Mataama, and Isaac Wagoina. Head Coach Abbey Bogere believes his team has what it takes to overcome Maroons.

“We face Maroons tomorrow in the FUFA Super 8, and as defending champions, we’re aware that this year’s edition is different, with a home-and-away basis and only two pitches, which negates the home advantage.”

“We’re prepared, having trained for a few weeks. The players are ready and prepared to defend the trophy. They’re eager to play with all their heart and secure three points from Maroons.”

TEAM NEWS:

Douglas Muganga remains sidelined with a knee injury, but the rest of the squad is available for selection.

Defender Benon Tahomera expressed optimism ahead of the game:

“We’re all prepared for tomorrow and ready to pick maximum points from Maroons while defending the trophy. We urge our fans to turn up in large numbers and rally behind us.”

Maroons, however, won’t be easy opponents, boasting a talented, experienced, and young squad.

MATCH COVERAGE:
The game will be broadcast live on TV, with timely updates on our social media handles, followed by a post-match report and match highlights.

OCHUNGO TRANSFER TO BUL CONFIRMED

Thomas Ochungo has today become an Eastern Giant with the left back signing a two-year contract.

***Ochungo posing with head coach Abbey Bogere***

The roving fullback joins us from Gaddafi FC, the team that brought him to the limelight.

Ochungo is one of the most promising fullbacks in the Uganda premier league with alot of potential.

He is a product of the FUFA juniors league having featured for Jinja Municipal Hippos in the first edition of the competition before his stellar performances earned him promotion to the senior side in 2017.

Ochungo first joined Gaddafi FC in 2020 when they were still in the Eastern regional league and guided them to the big league and then to the topflight, before he switched his allegiance to Busoga United in 2022.

He re-united with the Soldier boys in 2023, scoring two goals and recording one assist last season.

BUL SIGNS DICKSON MATAAMA

BUL FC is pleased to announce the signing of striker Dickson Matama from Jinja North FC.

The striker has signed a three-year contract with the Eastern Giants and will immediately join up with his new team mates for pre-season.

Upon completing his transfer, Mataama said;

“I think BUL FC is the team that can improve me as a player. According to the way I play, it is the team I believe can elevate my game and I believe I am going to become a monster while here.”

“I think I am in the right place that can help me grow as a player, and I promise to work very hard not to disappoint. I am a kind of a striker who likes scoring goals, and I hope to hit at least 15 goals next season.”

Head coach Abbey Kikomeko Bogere said;

“I have been following him, I have been watching him in the big league and I realised he can score. He is so fast, he is that kind of striker who can’t fail to score. If given three, four or five chances, Mataama can convert at least three of them if given the opportunity to play.”

“So if he can produce goals in a difficult competition like big league, how about in the Uganda premier league where he even has the privilege to partner with quality players? I think he will give us plenty of goals.”

“We only had Alex Kitata on the striking line last season and we struggled whenever he was injured. This time, we have opted to get a partner who can ably step in to help Kitata in case of anything and I think we are not going to face the same challenges we faced in the previous season.”

Mataama is a product of Bugembe Youth Academy. He joined lower division club Dream Killer FC in 2019 before he was captured by Bugiri De School in 2020.

In 2022, he was transferred to Jinja North while still in the Eastern regional league and guided the club to the FUFA big league where he scored 13 goals across the two seasons he featured in the second tier.

He also played for Butembe County in the Busoga Masaza Cup in 2022.

He will now begin the next chapter of his career with the Eastern Giants. Welcome to BUL FC, Ma – Taa – Ma!