Sinan Rajub SENOGA
Defender Jacob Okao scored a last grasp winning goal as NEC FC beat Mbarara City 2-1 at the Kakyeka Stadium in Mbarara.
Okao scored from close range following a poor clearance by Mbarara City captain Edward Namasa in the first minute of the added two.
Allan Mugalu gave NEC FC a deserved lead early in the second half but substitute Seiri Arigumaho equalized for the home side in the 86th minute.
Mugalu tapped in from close range following a poor clearance from goal mouth melee in the 58th minute.
NEC diligently defended their thin and delicate lead until the 86th minute when Wycliffe Ahumuza set up Arigumaho who put the ball beyond an onrushing Hannington Ssebwalunyo to level the scores.
NEC pushed for the winning goal and eventually got it through an unfamiliar source as Okao was gifted a ball by Namasa from close range.
Victory for the Hussein Mbalangu coached side keeps their title hopes intact heading into the final four games of the season.
NEC FC are now five points behind the leaders Vipers who won their game against UPDF FC on Tuesday to go to 62 points.
Mbarara City remained 13th, one slot above the drop zone on 23 points accumulated from the 26 games played.
Mbarara City will visit Wakiso Giants in a relegation six-pointer in their next game while NEC will host BUL FC on 7th May in a must win contest.
Mbarara City XI; Abdul Kimera, Stephen Othieno, Martin Owalamu, Edward Namasa, Yusuf Mafabi, Hamza Mulambuzi, Gibson Adinho, Wycliffe Ahumuza, Hassan Jurua, Jimmy Ndalambi, Henry Kitegenyi
NEC FC XI; Hannington Ssebwalunyo, Atendele Geriga, Ismail Kawawulo, Ibrahim Musa, Jacob Okao, Ibrahim Thembo, Emmanuel Kulanga, Allan Mugalu, Paul Mucureezi, James Jarieko, Cromwell Rwothomio
