NEC FC showed resilience and composure to secure a hard-earned 1–0 win over Buhimba United Saints on Tuesday evening at the Royals Park in Butema, just outside Hoima City.
The visitors struck early and then had to withstand sustained pressure for the remainder of the contest. Innocent Media proved decisive, capitalising on a clever lay-off from Joseph Sseremba to score what turned out to be the match-winning goal inside the opening quarter-hour.
Head coach Badru Kaddu rang the changes following NEC’s thrilling 3–3 draw with Kitara at Lugogo, making five adjustments to his starting XI. Hannington Ssebwalunyo was restored between the posts, replacing Benjamin Ochan, while Gideon Odongo took up the left-back role ahead of Jackson Ssembatya.
Further alterations saw Warren Buule link up with Patrick Bayiga in midfield in place of Ibrahim Musa, Allan Mugalu come in for Shamir Kimwero, and Emmanuel Kulanga earn a start ahead of Paul Mucureezi.
Kulanga’s involvement, however, was short-lived. The forward was forced off after just 12 minutes due to injury, with James Jarieko introduced as his replacement. Shortly after the substitution, NEC made their early dominance count as Media calmly finished to give his side the lead.
Buhimba United Saints pushed hard in search of an equaliser, applying pressure particularly in the second half, but they were repeatedly denied by an inspired Ssebwalunyo. The NEC goalkeeper produced a series of timely interventions to preserve the slender advantage.
At the final whistle, NEC walked away with all three points, a result that moves them up to seventh on the table with 19 points. Buhimba United Saints, meanwhile, remain 12th with 13 points as they continue their search for consistency.
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