David GOMBE
Mawokota Ssaza came from a goal down to beat defending champions Busiro 3-1 in the opening game of the 2023 Masaza Cup at Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku.
Goals from Abubaker Mayanja, Innocent Kasolo and Calvin Peter Emayo gave Mawokota maximum points to go top of Muganzirwa Group.
Akram Muzanyi had given reigning champions Busiro the lead from a well converted penalty in the 16th minute.
Mawokota restored parity through Mayanja in the 39th minute before Kasolo made it 2-1 moments later.
At the stroke of halftime, Busiro were rewarded another penalty but their starman Muzanyi blasted over his kick.
Emayo put the cherry on the icing of the cake in final minutes of the contest scoring the third goal for the three time champions Mawokota.
The entertaining game was graced by His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, Minister for Youth, Sports and recreation in Buganda Kingdom Henry Ssekabembe Kiberu, Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga, Members of Parliament and county chiefs all graced the opener.
Mawokota will next host Gomba on 9th July at Buwama Grounds while Busiro will visit Kabula a day before.
Action in the prestigious competition will however resume on 1st July with a Bulange Group contest between Busujju and Buvuma at Maanyi.
In the same group, Ssingo will face Bugerere while Bulemeezi will battle Butambala on 2nd July.
Mawogola will entertain Kabula in Muganzirwa Group on 2nd July whereas record winners Gomba will host Ssese on the same day.
Buddu will battle Kooki in a Masengere Group game while Kyadondo will face off with Buwekula.
Kyaggwe will host Buluuli in their first game of Masengere group on 2nd July.
