Charles Lwanga came off the bench to score a dramatic stoppage-time winner as SC Villa edged Police FC 2-1 in an entertaining Uganda Premier League clash played at the Kadiba Stadium on Friday evening.
The visitors, Police FC, were the sharper side in the opening exchanges and deservedly went ahead in the 22nd minute through Bedia Djuma Ikambi, who coolly finished off a clever assist from Dennis Kalanzi. SC Villa looked disjointed in the first half, struggling to find rhythm against the well-organized Cops.
Coach Dusan Stojanović responded decisively at the break, introducing Geoffrey Gagganga and Charles Lwanga to inject pace and creativity into the attack — and the changes transformed the game.
The hosts began the second half with renewed energy and purpose, pinning Police in their own half. Their persistence finally paid off in the 70th minute when Gagganga, one of the substitutes, pounced to slot home the equalizer, igniting celebrations among the Jogoos’ faithful.
As the clock ticked into added time, Villa continued to press for a winner, and their determination was rewarded deep into stoppage time. Gagganga once again turned provider, setting up Lwanga to calmly place the ball beyond the goalkeeper for the decisive goal.
Police’s hopes of salvaging a point were dashed, and frustration was evident as Daniel Jakony picked up a yellow card late in the first half — one of the few blemishes in an otherwise disciplined display from the visitors.
Lwanga’s impact off the bench earned him the Man of the Match award, while Gagganga’s goal and assist capped an excellent cameo that proved vital for the home side.
The victory keeps SC Villa’s unbeaten run intact and sends a strong message to their title rivals, while Police FC will rue missed chances and late lapses that cost them at least a share of the spoils.
