A walk along the streets of Arua town on Thursday morning would clearly tell you that there is something big going to happen.

A Bee hive of activities across all roads is what you see.

From Adumi road to Inzikuru street down to the famous Iddi Amin Dada road named after Uganda’s former President the late Amin Dada, fans have taken up the town.

Not even the morning drizzle has stopped football enthusiasts from starting celebrations ahead of the highly anticipated Uganda Cup final between KCCA FC and Paidha Black Angels.

The two lock horns in the 43rd edition of the Uganda Cup and loyal fans of either teams have travelled to Arua to rally support to their teams.

KCCA FC fans have also traveled in big numbers

The sound of vuvuzelas, drums and loud cheers from fans moving in processions have literally set the town on fire.

Paidha a team that hails from Zombo District in West Nile defied the odds to reach their first ever final going through several hurdles including eliminating defending champions Vipers.

On the other hand, KCCA FC are seeking for their ninth Uganda Cup but perhaps there is more attachment to this final as the club seeks to win their maiden domestic double(winning the league and Uganda Cup in the same season).

With over 5 hours to the kickoff of the game at Greenlight stadium, the town has been immersed in a bee hive of activities from the soccer fans

By: Brian Kawalya

National Basketball League
Magic Stormers 72-50 KIU Rangers

KIU Rangers lost 50-72 to Magic Stormers in an intense Women National Basketball league encounter on Wednesday evening at YMCA court, Wandegeya.

The Stormers, coached by John Omondi managed to overcome a 4-point deficit in their first quarter with Asinde registering a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds.

“Back in the days, other teams had turned us into a supermarket, but this time we have come stronger. We have a crop of young players who are ready to compete,” warned Jacky Natocho who finished the game with 5 points.

KIU Rangers started on court with a strong side consisting of Apiyo, Irakoze, Marion, Atulinda and Namukasa. They had a powerful start leading the first quarter 18-14.

In the second quarter, the Stormers managed to fight back and eventually closed down the 4 point deficit, turning the tables against the Rangers as the second quarter ended 34-35 in favour of the Stormers.

The Stormers continued to impose their dominance in the 3rd quarter with Natocho engineering the moves.

She drove the ball from the back-court, distributing it to all corners of the court with exquisite ease; enabling the Stormers to add 18 points in the 3rd quarter taking their tally to 53.

In last quarter, Both Awayo Esther and Asinde Jane added two point shots from inside the paint as Stormers clocked 57.

KIU Rangers, Nimod Kaboha tried to stage a late rally as Moreen Atulinda managed to end the game with 13 points, but even a late 3 point slap shot from way downtown by Aurora Irakoza wasn’t enough as the Rangers lost by a 22 point margin.

Atulinda finished the game limping due to a muscle pool she picked midway through the 3rd quarter,

Lineups.

Magic Stormers

Namwenge Benedick, Agiru Getrude, Tausi Mumina, Namvubya Shakira, Natocho Jacky, July Nakafeero, Barbara Namukwaya, Shina Abbey, Akon Rose, Nakiyingi Evelyn, Awayo Esther, Asinde Jane.

Coach – John Omondi

KIU Rangers

Aisha Nakabubi, Fionah Apiyo, Nalumanzi Irine, Aurore Irakoze, Annielle Kadede, Marion Esther, Ritah Komugisha, Maureem Nankya, Moreen Atulinda, Penelope Ampumuza, Nankya Doreen.

Coach – Nimod Kaboha

Referee – Ivan Ssemanda

Umpire – Lewis Dingo

Commissioner – Edmond Lumu

By: Brian Kawalya

National Basketball League
UPDF 30-50 Ndejje

Ndejje University outlasted UPDF with a 50-30 victory in the 2017 Men’s National Basketball league game played at an almost empty YMCA court in Wandegeya.

Like Dan Frisby once said, “Basketball is like Photography, if you don’t focus, all u have is the negative”, surely, you could be forced to believe that he completely referred to UPDF Tomahawks, whose slow start yielded a dry spell completing the first quarter without a single basket.

The Tomahawks were trailing 14-0 as Ndejje fired on all cylinders by the end of the first quarter.

The struggling Tomahawks looked like they were not ready for the show as their target man Henry Okoth missed the chance to get their first point of the game failing to convert a free throw at the start of the second quarter.

With the introduction of Herman Matovu and Joseph Dramaza from the substitute bench, UPDF started to find shape as they started to pressure their opponents from the perimeter which gradually paid off.

Okoth’s shot from the far corner of the front court outside the 3-point line gave them their first basket of the night as the scoreboard brightly read 23:3 with 4:02 remaining to the end of the second quarter.

The University Angels looked like they had run out of steam in the 3rd quarter registering 11 points to UPDF’s 13 but the now rejuvenated Tomahawks needed more than that to overturn the big deficit.

Baker Kyambadde’s Tomahawks continued to press but their 30 points total on the night proved inadequate as they lost by a 20 point margin with Deng Maker leading the way with 15 points and 13 rebounds.

Lineups

Ndejje

Nunda Kiryowe, Otieno Micheal, Lupundu Pitchou, Chaka Jeje, Ajack Samuel, Ochera Innocent, Okello David, Baderha Gauthier, Deng Maker, Katumba Derrick, Kisily Salim, Buluma Martin.

Coach – Walker Obedi.

Ass. Coach – John Omondi

UPDF Tomahawks

Muhumuza Moses, Okello Emma, Ogwang Daniel, Matovu Herman, Okoth Henry, Okot Andrew, Dramaza Joseph, Wakorach Stephen, Guma James, Mityero Abel, Mutawe Dalton.

Coach – Baker Kyambadde

Referee – Ivan Ssemanda.

Umpire – Edmond Lumu.

Commissioner – Brian Ssebalamu.

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) in conjunction with the football fraternity has joined hands to send a helping hand towards Arua remand home.

Like it has become a norm for Fufa to do Corporate Social Responsibility, the local football governing body together with the teams in the final (KCCA FC and Paidha Black Angels) have given out goodies to Arua Remand home found in Giligili village.

Some of the property delivered on Thursday morning included food items (Sugar, Maize Floor), shoes, clothes, balls, bags among others.

Moses Okurut, the welfare manager of the home thanked Fufa and football lovers for the kind spirit of giving back to the community.

“We thank FUFA, the two clubs KCCA FC and Paidha Black Angels as well as the fans who have donated generously. May God bless you all” Okurut said stated as quoted by the federation website.

The two clubs that are in the finals were also represented with players and administrators.

KCCA FC for instance had club patron Lord Mayor ,Elias Lukwago grace the occasion.

This is the second time that Fufa are conducting a CSR drive with last year’s proceedings given to Missionary of the Poor home in Mengo, Kisenyi.

The region that hosts the final of the Uganda Cup every year benefits from the campaign by identifying a given home of needy children in that area.

Uganda Cup final 2017
Paidha Black Angels 0-2 KCCA FC

Kampala Capital City Authority Football Club transited their dominance from the league to clinching the 2017 Uganda Cup title and break the long standing jinx of not winning the domestic double.

A goal in either half from the prolific of Geoffrey Sserunkuma and Derrick Nsibambi ensured KCCA FC eased past Paidha Black Angels in the final played on Thursday at Betway greenlight stadium.

Before the game, there was honoring of assistant referee Samuel Kayondo who was officiating his final game in a career he has served for 22 years.

Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago and CEO Jennifer Ssemakula Musisi also made the trip to West Nile to support their team.

Paidha Black Angels got the first opportunity of the game as early as the 3rd minute when Timothy Awany’s indecisive pass was picked by Rashid Said but his effort was easily collected by goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan.

Seven minutes later, KCCA FC got the lead through reliable striker Geoffrey Sserunkuma after capitalizing on a mistake at the back by Stephen Mwaka.

Mwaka failed to clear away from danger and Sserunkuma did no mistake to tap the ball into the bottom left corner of the net.

Paidha had another chance to level matters with Cromwell Rwothomio sending a low drive but Ochan was in position again to save.

The chances kept fluctuating in the following moments including Rashid Said getting another opportunity at the stroke of halftime.

Twelve minutes after recess, on form striker Derrick Nsibambi doubled the lead for KCCA FC with a classic finish.

The lethal forward lashed onto a long ball from Dennis Okot before firing past on rushing goalkeeper Data Said to send KCCA FC loyal fans into wild cheers.

KCCA FC opted for changes with Paul Musamali who had been booked paving way for Habib Kavuma while Muzamir Mutyabya also came off and was replaced by Isaac Kirabira.

KCCA FC now win their 9th Uganda Cup title and also achieve the much needed domestic double feat to join clubs like SC Villa and Express as the other teams that won the double.

Paidha Black Angels starting XI

Data Saidi, Fred Amaku, Uyirwoth Erick, Francis Oting, Kalidi Odagiu, Joel Mundua, Stephen Mwaka, Cromwel Rwothomio, Nseta Sabiri, Fred Nsereko Male, Rashid Said

Nsibambi finished the season as the top scorer with eight goals while youngster Lawrence Bukenya was voted MVP.

KCCA FC were awarded a trophy and a dummy cheque of UGX 7M while Paidha Black Angels got UGX 5M.

KCCA FC starting XI

Benjamin Ochan, Denis Okot, Timothy Awany, Paul Musamali, Bukenya Lawrence, Isaac Muleme, Vincent Kayizzi, Muzamir Mutyaba, Tom Masiko, Derrick Nsibambi, Geoffrey Sserunkuuma

Individual awards

MVP- Top scorer – Derrick Nsibambi (8goals)

Best goalkeeper – Emmanuel Rubangakene (Paidha Black Angels)

Fufa Presidential Award – Jennifer Musisi

Fair Play Award – Paidha Black Angels

Best Referee – Alex Muhabi

Best Coach – Mike Mutebi

Best Print Media – Daily Monitor

Best Online Media – Kawowo Sports

Best Radio – Radio Packs (Arua)

Best TV-Bukedde TV

Attacking midfielder Allan Kyambadde alias “The dictionary” has agreed a deal to join Sports Club Villa.

Kyambadde who played last season at Express FC on loan from SC Vipers agreed a two year deal on Thursday to join the Nsambya based side.

After his contract expiring at SC Vipers, Kyambadde was a free agent and Sports Club Villa have lured him on a 2 year deal.

SC Villa acting CEO, Valley Mugwanya confirmed the deal and stated that it is a good move for the club.

“We have signed him on a free move and he has agreed a two year deal. He is a good player who suits in our style of play,” he said.

Kyambadde was the 2013/14 Most Valuable Player of the league after a good season at Express FC.

He later moved to Vipers but failed to cut the grade at the Kitende based side and was ditched back to Express.

He joins Musa Mukasa, Mahad Kakooza and Simon Sserunkuma who have all joined the Jogoos from Express plus George Ssenkaaba (from Kirinya Jinja SS).

Guaranty Trust bank has committed financial support to this year’s Gadies and Lentlemen golf tournament.

The bank has contributed over Shs60M to the 2017 Gadies and Lentlemen golf championship due this Saturday at the Kitante golf course.

In a press briefing held at Uganda Golf Club, GT Bank Executive Director Irenosen Ohiwerei said he believes this is one of the Lentlemen golf tournament and is looking forward to working with the various golfers.

“We are pleased to partner with the organisers of this tournament and golfers in general. We believe this will be the right platform for us as we launch our Master Card,” she said.

The Gadies and Lentlemen tournament that has been in existence for over 30 years is exciting with a lot of fun filled activities.

Men will dress in the ladies attire while on course and the reverse is true for the ladies.

Lady Captain Mary Ocheing who also attended the launch of the tournament stated that the one-day tournament will test golfers’ skills to the limit and that surprise scores with over 100 golfers from across the country expected to take part.

“We are happy to host this unique tournament because golfers play a different course. It gives us a new dimension but also tests one’s skill and ability,” Ochieng said.

“We thank GT Bank for the financial support this year and commitment towards this tournament,” she added.

There will be individual awards to be won at the end of the day plus Golf kit bags. The tournament is expected to tee off at 9am.

Onduparaka FC has continued with the spending spree in the transfer season with their third signing in a bid to bolster their squad.

Barely 24 hours after signing two players, Onduparaka have officially announced the signing of Nicolas Sebwato from Brightstars.

The lanky goalkeeper who had a good season (2016/17) at Bright stars improving from his SC Villa days has joined the caterpillars on a 2 year deal.

Onduparaka coach, Livingston Mbabazi believes the arrival of Ssebwato will help to mitigate the goalkeeping woes that the team had last season.

‘‘Last season we conceded more goals than we scored, Nicholas Ssebwato is very experienced in that department, am sure he will help us a lot,” he said.

With Richard Anyama and Nasir Kassim, the Arua based side conceded 40 goals in 30 league games.

Ssebwato despite Bright stars struggling to beat relegation; he managed 11 clean sheets in the league and will comes in as upgrade of the above mentioned goalkeepers.

The former SC Villa and KCCA FC custodian joins Karim Nduggwa (striker) and Rajab Kakooza (midfielder) who completed their moves on Thursday.

Mbabazi indicates they are not yet done with the transfer business and he expects more additions to the squad.

“We are not done yet, we still have areas where we need some characters, it’s not all about getting the players, and it’s about getting the right quality” Mbabazi told the club website.

Onduparka FC will resume training on 3rd July in preparation for the league which kicks off in August.

By close of business on Friday evening only incumbent, Engineer Moses Hashim Magogo had successfully gone through the nomination process for the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) top seat.

With a beehive of activities at the Federation headquarters in Mengo, drama, chaos and unease was the order of the day ahead of the final day of confirming willing candidates.

Magogo’s challenger Mujib Kasule ended the day with his nomination to vie for Presidency still pending after failing to meet the necessary requirements on the electoral committee deadline.

In the series of the activities, first was Radio One/Akaboozi journalist Elly Kyeyune who was allegedly manhandled by Fufa Big League delegate Hassan Kirunda and Uganda Cranes’ official Patrick Ntege at Fufa House.

The assalted journalist fainted and had to be rushed to Lisa Medical Centre where he received treatment before resuscitating.

Mujib Kasule consulting a colleague at Fufa house on Friday (photo by Fufa Media)

A group carrying placards protesting Magogo’s stay in office had stormed Fufa and when Kyeyune removed out his phone to do an update on Radio, he was apparently beaten.

Before the dust could settle, Mujib Kasule who was supposed to return his nomination forms at 2:30pm claimed that his car, a Mitsubishi Pajero was stoned by a rowdy unidentified goon who was on a motorcycle (Boda boda)

Instead of proceeding to Fufa, Kasule opted to report the case to Police rather than get nominated.

While Magogo’s confirmation as a candidate was seamless and lasted minutes from 4pm after which he promised to “consolidate the gains”, Kasule was even more dramatic when he returned from ‘Police’.

Mujib Kasule’s Car which was hit by an unidentified person

By 4:30pm, Fufa Electoral commission boss, Sam Bakika indicated Kasule’s nomination had a few hitches failing to constitute an executive which is one of the factors.

Kasule didn’t have a letter from any of the eight Fufa regions backing him. None of his backers came with him while none of the nine members he raised signed on the documents.

Interestingly, his proposed first vice president Sam Mpiima, the Buganda delegate, came to Fufa after 6pm, with the process completed.

Midfielder Muwadda Mawejje has agreed a deal to join Uganda Premier League side Soana Footbal Club after time on the sidelines.

Mawejje who has been club less since leaving now defunct SC Victoria University in 2015 joins the Kavumba based side on a 2 year deal.

The deal was confirmed by club owner and businessman Smart Obedi indicating Mawejje is a good addition to the team.

“Mawejje has joined us on a 2 year agreement after the technical team assessed that he would be a good addition to the squad,” he intimated to this website.

The former SC Villa and SC Victoria University winger had moved to South Africa where he has been until his return to Uganda.

Soana coach, Alex Isabirye who worked with the crafty midfielder at SC Victoria University in 2014 believes the player will help in bolstering his squad.

“We looked at someone with experience and ability to give us more directness and Mawejje possesses those qualities,” Isabirye stated.

Soana finished the 2016/17 Uganda Premier League in 7th position with 42 points.

Uganda Cranes striker Emmanuel Arnold Okwi has completed a return to Tanzania rejoining traditional giants SC Simba.

The move was confirmed on Friday with Okwi agreeing a two year deal to return to Simba where he made a mark a few years ago.

The striker landed the deal after his short spell at SC Villa saw him regain his form scoring 10 goals in 12 games helping SC Villa finish second in the league and also made a return to the national team.

Okwi had gone through a slump during his stay at Danish based side SondyjskE where he hardly played but his short spell at SC Villa has seen him return to his best.

This will be Okwi’s third stint at Wamatopeni.

His initial stay at Simba was in 2010 when he made a move from SC Villa. He would later return to Simba for a six month spell in 2014 after his contract at Etoile Du Sahel was terminated.

Okwi joins fellow Uganda Cranes player Murushid Jjuko who has been at the team for 3 years.

The striker at one time switched allegiance in 2014 ditching Simba to join bitter and eternal rivals Yanga FC a move that sparked off controversies.

By: Brian Kawalya

Africa City Challenge
Nairobi Morans 71-49 Kampala Red Stars (Finals)
Mogadishu 69-54 Mombasa (Losers Match)

Kenya’s Nairobi Morans swept aside Kampala Red stars 71-49 to clinch the inaugural Africa city slam Basketball tournament at Nyayo National stadium, Nairobi.

The competition which was dubbed the Africa city Challenge commenced on June 11, spanning 6 days with 6 cities each represented by a selected team of the top male All-Star players from each city teams.

The 6 teams were drawn from Nairobi, Mombasa, Kampala, Mogadishu, Dar es Salaam and Juba.

Losing finalists Kampala Red stars were under the guidance of Silver bucks and City Oilers coach Mandy Juruni, represented by a select cream of 10 players namely; Oilers’ Stephen Omony, Jimmy Enabu, Mark Opio, Joseph Ikong, Geoffrey Solo, ivan lumanyika, Sudi Ulanga, Brian Namake, Phillip Ameny and Micheal Makiadi.

Tournament champions Nairobi Morans walked away with an estimated $6000 and had their Ben Oluoch and Bush Wamukota named as Best coach and MVP in that order.

Mogadishu finished 3rd ahead of Mombasa.

Friday, 16th June 2017
Our Saviour 53-55 UPDF tomahawks
Startimes Falcons 44-61 Ndejje Univ. Angels

The 2017 National Basketball League continued on Friday with 2 games played at the YMCA Kampala outdoor court.

UPDF tomahawks opened the proceedings with a nail biting finish, beating Kikoni based side Our Saviour in a 55-53 victory.

Baker Kyambadde’s Tomahawks needed the last 5 seconds to overturn the deficit as Our Saviour threw away a 10 point lead at half time.

Stephen Wokorach (17) and the on-form Okoth Henry (11) scored half of Tomahawks’ points in the game which was officiated by lady referee Mariam Birungi.

In the second game of the night, Ndejje cruised to its second consecutive victory of the season, registering a 22 point victory after beating Startimes Falcons 71-49.

Deng Maker of Ndejje University angels who hit 3 overwhelming dunks in the dying seconds of the game registered a man of the match performance with a double double that garnered 21 points and 18 rebounds.

Falcons’ Bernard Okumu scored 19 points and 11 rebounds but his blistering performance will go unrecognized as his team is yet to win a match.

The record champions have not won a league game this season after previous losses to JKL Dolphins, Betway Power, Nkumba marines and now Ndejje.

They return to YMCA court on June 25th to tussle with Sharing Youth before a tough trip to MTN arena lugogo to face Pemba Warriors.

Lineups Used

Falcons: Owori Navi, Francis Karoro, Asiku Dikson, Moses Olobo, Vinie Jurua, Aupal Emma, Okumu Bernard, Abbul Ntale.

Coach: Bernard Ankunda.

Ndejje: Nunda Kiryowa, Otieno Michael, Lupundu Pitchou, Chaka Jeje, Ajack Samuel, Ochora Innocent, Majok Owen, Okello David, Deng Maker, Katumba Derick, Kisily Salim, Buluma Martin.

Coach: Walker Obedi

Officiation: Peter Kirabo (Referee), Lawrence Mutyaba (Commissioner), Ronald Rupiny (Umpire)

Fufa Women’s cup 2017
Olila Women FC vs Gafford Ladies
Madibira stadium, Busia
Sunday 18th June 2017

Their campaign in the Fufa elite league was an awful one but Gafford Ladies have been a different side in the Fufa Women’s Cup.

And as they take on Olila Women’s football club this Sunday in the final of the inaugural Fufa Women’s Cup, Gafford Ladies will be hoping for a good outing.

The Kanyanya based side will be targeting to end the season on a high and perhaps cover up for a horrible run in the league where they finished bottom of the Victoria group.

In Lilian Veronica, Gafford have gold.

A fearless and tireless forward who runs around the pitch throughout the entirety of the game and also has the ability to put away the chances.

The Kenyan striker was influential as Gafford edged past Muteesa I Royal University in the semifinals.

Besides, Shakira Mutimbwa and Nantumbwe Sandra pose a big threat in the midfield with the duo offering both offence and defence.

On the other hand, Olila go into the final as favorites after having a blissful campaign in the league where they finished 4th under the tutorship of Saddam Mpande.

Striker Fazirah Ikwaput who was named the MVP in the league headlines Olila’s power and ability.

The lanky forward has been sublime for the Soroti based scoring 4 goals enroute to the final.

The other notable performers for Olila include goalkeeper Vanessa Karungi who is best known for her ability to save penalties, Marion Amangat, Ritah Nabossa, Wilmer Nantumbwe, Norah Alupo and Cissy Nantongo among others.

This is the first edition of the Fufa Women’s Cup that was introduced to give more playing time to the players but also hand an opportunity to those that do not play in the elite league.

Olila’s road to the final

Round of 32

Olila 4-2 Allelluyah 2008

Round of 16

Olila 2-0 Eastern Heroes

Quarterfinals

Tagy High school 0-1  Olila

Semifinals

UCU lady cardinals 2(1) -2(2)Olila

Gafford’s road to the final

Round of 16

Gafford 3-0 London Stallions (walkover)

Quarterfinals

Gafford 2-0 She cooperate

Semifinals

Mutesa 1-2  Gafford Ladies

Probable starting lineups

Gafford Ladies

Elsie Najjemba (G.K), Josephine Nakyewa, Rachael Ndagire, Florence Nakalule, Evelyne Kakayi, Sophie Madudu, Monica Namwase, Shakira Mutimbwa, Sandra Nantumbwe, Teddy Lillian Veronica, Sheeba Zalwango, Gertude Karungi

Olila WFC probable starting XI

Angeo Lucy, Gillian Akankinda, Amangat Marion, Wilmer Nantumbwe, Ariokot Eunice, Ilamai Mangadalene, Amoding Siporosa, Cissy Nantongo, Nabossa Ritah, Fazilah I Alupo Norah.

Fufa Women’s Cup 2017
Gafford Ladies 1(1)-1(3) Olila HS

Olila High School Women Football club are the champions of the inaugural Fufa Women’s Cup after edging past Gafford Ladies.

In a thrilling game played at the Madibira Primary school playground, Busia on Sunday, Olila High school needed goalkeeper Karungi Vanessa’s mastery in the penalties to win the title.

Normal time had ended in a one all stalemate but goalkeeper Karungi saved a penalty in the tense shootout to help Olila win 3-1.

Olila started the game the better side dominating possession and searching for early goal

As early as the 2nd minute, Magdalene Illamai tested goalkeeper Elsie Najjemba with a thunderbolt outside the area but she was able to contain.

A minute later, lanky forward Sharon Alupo had a chance to head home but she missed the target with the ball going just wide.

Gafford Ladies however were able to contain the early pressure and calmed their nerves to start marching Olila’s pace.

They even went ahead to break the deadlock with defender Evelyn Kakayi heading home in the 36th minute.

A free kick from Gertrude Karungi was brushed by Sandra Nantumbwe and Kakayi headed past onrushing goalkeeper Vanessa Karungi who had moved off her line.The Kanyanya based side took the lead at halftime.

However, Olia High returned recharged after recess searching for a quick goal. The coach was prompted to make a change and introduced Siporosa for Sharon Achieng who was ineffective in the first half.

Olila won a penalty in the 54th minute when Fazirah Ikwaput was brought down inside the box by goalkeeper Elsie Najjemba and centre referee Anna Akoyi did no mistake to point to the centre.

Midfielder Cissy Nantongo stepped up to convert the resultant penalty sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

Olila then made several attacks with Ikwaput being unlucky on one of  the  occasions as her effort hit the post.

The game eventually ended in a stalemate and had to be determined on penalties to find the winner.

Olila High School converted all their spot kicks through Cissy Nantumbwe,Alupo Norah and Siporosa while while Sandra Nantumbwe, Annick Sophia and Shakira Mutibwa missed theirs.

Winners Olila were given a cash prize of Shs 3million while Gafford Ladies walked home with Shs 2million.

Gafford Ladies starting XI

Elsie Najjemba, Josephine Nakyewa, Lydia Namutebi, Florence Nakalule, Hajara Nassuna, Gertrude Karungi, Sandra Nantumbwe, Lilian Veronica, Shakira Mutibwa, Monica Namwase

Olila High starting XI

Vanessa Edith Karungi, Gillian Akandida, Marion Amangat, Ariong Eunice, Wilmer Nantumbwe, Illamai Magdalene, Sharon Achieng, Cissy Nantongo, Fazirah Ikwaput, Ritah Nabossa

Individual Awards

Most Valuable player- Nabossa Ritah (Olila)

Top scorer- Fazilah Ikwaput (Olila)

Best Goalkeeper- Vanessa Karungi (Olila)

Best Coach – Saddam Cifu Mpande (Olila)

Fair Play Award-Taggy High School

Best Journalist Online- Fred Mwambu (Futaa)

Best Journalist Radio- Solomon Ssaka (Innerman FM)

Best Journalist Print -Markhtum Muziranza (Daily Monitor)

Kabale Legends Football Club on Saturday held Parliamentary staff members to a goalless draw in a preparatory match played at Kabale Municipal Stadium.

Hassan Tindyebwa, the team Parliament captain, who is also the political assistant of the Kabale Municipality MP Andrew Aja Baryayanga said the friendly march was in preparation for the next edition of the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary games that will be hosted by the Parliament of Tanzania in December 2017.

The games will include volleyball, netball, football, tug-of-war, athletic disciplines among others.

Kassim Nsimbe, the parliament staff team leader says they have held and will hold more friendly games in different parts of the country ahead of the December games.

Uganda Parliament sports team are the reigning Champions of the of the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary games after emerging winners in football, netball and athletics.

Express FC club chairperson, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi has promised the club fans that she intends to offer new and improved long term contracts to the club’s players.

Nakiwala made the promise while responding to reports that most of the players at the club are not contracted while others are on monthly contracts.

The transfer of midfielder Ibrahim Saddam Juma to the Express’ direct rivals KCCA FC before the season ended further intensified the crisis.

“Am well aware of the ongoing player issues at the club but I promise to handle them as required. I am personally going to meet the players one by one starting tomorrow and listen to their issues and am going to offer them long term contracts of at least 2 years,” Nakiwala told a meeting of fans at Wankulukuku.

The Club Chairperson who is also the Minister for Youth and children affairs said she will unveil new club sponsors in a month’s time as she looks to renew their lucrative sponsorship deal with DStv.

Express’ one year partnership with DSTV was signed on October 27, 2016.

She further noted that the club will celebrate its 60 year anniversary on August 10, a date which has been pushed as she felt that the fans initially prioritised club results ahead of celebrations.

The club was founded in 1957 by the managers of the Uganda Newspapers notably Jolly Joe Kiwanuka.

Nakiwala promised to talk to Naalinya (Kabaka’s sister) in pursuit of sorting out the Muteesa II stadium ownership rights.

She thanked the fans committee for their immense efforts towards the club’s development that have seen fans’ branches grow to 17 countrywide.

National Basketball League

KIU Titans 55-43 UCU Cannons
UCU lady Canons 57-48 KIU rangers
City Oilers 93-49 Nkumba Marines
Javon Ladies 68-62 Nkumba Ladies

The 2017 NBL season continued on Sunday with a busy schedule that saw 8 teams take centre stage at an almost sold out YMCA Kampala outdoor court.

If there’s any team that will stop KIU titans from stretching their unbeaten record, it will not be UCU cannons, at least for the first round.

Before this encounter, many had tipped them favorites following their massive win against the City Oilers, but it seemed the ‘favorite’ tag bestowed onto them proved heavy to hold as they went on to lose by an eight point deficit.

Titans who are yet to lose a game this season have now added UCU canons on their list of casualties which has Ndejje University Angels, JKL dolphins, Sharing Youth and Our saviour taking them 5-0 so far.

Chris Omanye picked 17 points, 4 assists and 4 rebounds while Kazungu managed 15 rebounds.

Speaking to ChimpReports after the end of the game, Omanye said; “Personally, am working more on playing with each other because when I share the ball, I get the tension off me putting me in a position to score more.”

Hamza Kayondo, the KIU coach noted that he has a good team that’s ready to go all the way

“Our boys played very well, we didn’t score more but a win is a win.”

Asked about the difference between the current and last year’s team, he said “we trimmed the team and right now they are just 12 players. This one has character and passion.”

Other games of the day

Ladies

The first game saw UCU lady Canons, coached by Nicholas Natuhereza, lead from start to finish as they outwitted KIU Rangers 57-48.

In the other Ladies game, Javon ladies Phenoms who were trailing 27-28 at halftime managed to mount a late rally with a formidable display to see off the stubborn Nkumba lady marines with a 68-62 victory.

Rhoda Naggita scored 26 points for Javon ladies, converting 6 of 15 shots she took outside the 3 point arc.

She-marines will blame themselves for not matching Brenda Ekone’s performance that saw her notching a game high 36 points.

Men

Mandy Juruni’s Silverbucks dismantled Nkumba Marines in a one way avenue game.

Ssentongo Brian (12 rebounds and 11 points) and Laundry Ndikumana (11 rebounds and 17 points) managed to hit double doubles on the day.

Jimmy Enabu and Omony Stephen Who returned in the country on Saturday night, were used for only 10 minutes as the pair suffered from fatigue following their duties with the selected Kampala Red stars team which lost to Nairobi Morans in the Africa city challenge finals.

Kampala Capital City Authority Football Club (KCCA FC) skipper, Dennis Okot Oola is optimistic his team can earn a positive result away to Rivers United.

Fresh from winning the Uganda Cup, KCCA FC have embarked on another expedition as they take on Rivers United in the CAF Confederation Cup this Tuesday.

Already in Port Harcourt, Nigeria with the rest of the team, Okot believes the Cup triumph and recent games played give them confidence ahead of Tuesday’s game.

“We go into this game with our confidence levels very high. The results we have been picking in the previous games give us courage. Besides, even winning the Uganda Cup is also motivational enough,” he said.

Okot who has been a key figure the entire season will be pivotal defensively as the reigning League Champions will be aiming at picking their maiden point away from home.

KCCA FC have not kept a clean sheet in all its group A games but Okot indicates this is not a spot for bother ahead of the return leg against Rivers United.

“It is true we have continued to leak goals but we work every day towards mitigating the leakages and that is not a reason for worry,” said the captain.

KCCA FC are second in group A on 6 points same as group leaders FUS Rabat while Club Africain and Rivers United are 3rd and 4th respectively.

KCCA FC won the first leg against Rivers United 2-1 at Phillip Omondi stadium courtesy of Derrick Nsibambi and Tom Masiko.

KCCA FC squad in Nigeria:

Benjamin Ochan, Denis Okot, Timothy Awany, Paul Musamali, Bukenya Lawrence, Isaac Muleme, Vincent Kayizzi, Muzamir Mutyaba, Tom Masiko, Derrick Nsibambi, Geoffrey Sserunkuuma, Douglas Kisembo (GK), Habib Kavuma, Denis Rukundo, Paul Mucureezi, Ivan Ntege, Allan Okello, Julius Poloto

Muteesa I Royal University will play in their first ever final in the National beach soccer league after their brilliant performance saw them edge past defending champions Nkumba Select.

In the games played on Sunday at Lido beach, Entebbe, Muteesa defied odds to storm the finals where they will play two time winners, Makerere University Business School (MUBS).

Nkumba Select, the defending champions faced an uphill challenge in Muteesa in the semifinals and bowed out on penalties after normal time had ended in a draw.

The encounter was a repeat of regular season with the two teams qualifying from Hurricane group.

Muteesa eventually went ahead to win the game 4-2 on penalties after normal time had ended 1-1.

The Mengo-Kakeeka based university had earlier on defeated St. Lawrence University 5-4 in the quarterfinals.

On the other hand, two time winners (2013 and 2014), MUBS also stormed the final in style outwitting YMCA 7-4 in the semifinals.

Ben Ochen netted a hat trick, Isma Kawawulo got a brace while Maxwell Okello and Julius Zimula scored a goal apiece to help MUBS edge past YMCA.

The Charles Ayieko coached side had also won the quarterfinals with a similar score against Stormers.

Muteesa and MUBS will play in the finals slated for Sunday 25th June 2017 at Lido beach while YMCA and Nkumba Select will battle for the 3rd place.

Quarterfinals

YMCA 9-4 Kabalagala Rangers

MUBS 7-4 Stormers

Nkumba Select 12-05 KIU

Muteesa 5-4 St.Lawrence