Pepsi University Football League
Semifinals First Leg
Result
Muteesa 0 SLAU 0
St Lawrence University (SLAU) held Muteesa 1 Royal University to a 0-0 stalemate in the first leg of their Pepsi University Football League (PUFL) semifinal at Kirumba Grounds, Masaka City, leaving the tie tantalizingly open ahead of next Thursday’s return leg in Kavule.
The clash saw SLAU create the clearer opportunities, with James Okello’s first-half effort controversially ruled out for offside, sparking debate among players and fans alike. Despite being second best for much of the match, Muteesa’s goalkeeper Joram Kayanja kept his team in contention with two crucial saves, denying Okello and Collin Ssemanda from breaking the deadlock.
Muteesa had their moments, too, with Ali Lutwama and Akaaya Busuulwa testing SLAU custodian Mohammed Kateete, who stood firm to maintain the clean sheet.
“Muteesa controlled parts of the game, but SLAU were sharper in the final third,” said PUFL observers. “It’s now all set for a nail-biting return leg.”
Muteesa head coach George William Ssengabi remained upbeat despite the draw. “We haven’t lost, and that’s positive. Kavule will be tough, but I believe we can get the win,” he said.
SLAU’s coach Davis Ssozi Nnono praised his team’s discipline while lamenting the disallowed goal. “We performed well, and we are confident that the home advantage next week will see us through,” he added.
The second leg at Crown City Campus Grounds promises to be a tense showdown for a place in the PUFL final.
