David GOMBE
NEC FC’s 2-1 victory over Kitara FC on Thursday at Lugogo epitomised their resilience in the face of adversity.
Reduced to 10 men at the start of the second period, the Diehards displayed immense determination to snatch all three points and keep themselves within touching distance of the Uganda Premier League leaders Vipers SC.
Hussein Mbalangu’s men came into the game back of a goalless stalemate against UPDF FC in their previous game and needed a response to keep up with the title charge.
Kitara hit the front when Kabon Living headed home a sensational Titus Ssematimba cross in the 9th minute of the game.
The lead however short-lived when NEC equalized through veteran Muzamir Mutyaba after Marvin Kavuma ‘s header off a Paul Mucureezi cross had hit the post.
Early in the second period, Enock Ssebaggala was sent off for a second bookable offence on Jude Ssemugabi.
Mbalangu’s men however snatched a late winner with three minutes to normal time when Kavuma headed Emmanuel Ajo’s perfect cross.
NEC FC are now on 51 points and a point behind Vipers SC who play Express FC on Friday at Nakivubo Stadium.
Kitara stay fifth on the Uganda Premier league log with 35 points in 23 games.
