Amus College FC writes new chapter with Big League promotion

Amus College Football Club head coach Richard Malinga has attributed the team's promotion to the FUFA Big League to unity and collective team ethic rather than reliance on individual superstars.

"One of our principles is to put our trust in everyone and have all players who embody the spirit of the club, not just one," said Malinga.

Malinga, who guided Amus College School to the final and victory in the Uganda National Secondary Schools U-20 boys' football championship, emphasised the team's resilience and ability to win tough titles through a shared club identity.

According to Malinga, the club's promotion to the Big League, Uganda's second-tier football competition,  marks a new chapter in the history of football in the country.

The Bukedea district-based club secured its promotion following a hard-fought 2-1 aggregate victory over MYDA FC in the playoff encounter. The second leg ended in a goalless draw at Kongunga Playground in Bukedea Town Council, with Amus College holding on to the advantage earned from the first leg.

"Our next target now is to look at the Uganda Premier League. As a club, we have a lot to do ahead of us to achieve that. Big League matches are never easy, but we shall try everything it takes to succeed," said Nimrod Kintu, the club's tactician.

According to Kintu, the promotion represents more than just a football victory. It is the result of months of sacrifice, discipline, resilience, teamwork, and belief from everyone connected to the club. "Outstanding performances from the players throughout the campaign demonstrated courage, determination, and the winning mentality that defined Amus College's successful journey," he added.

Amus College FC joins Kisoro-based Mutolere FC, which eliminated Booma FC with a 1-0 aggregate victory after the return leg ended goalless. Other teams that secured promotion to the Big League include Pakwach Young Stars, which defeated Pajule Lions 2-0 on aggregate, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit.

Buwambo United from the Buganda Region also earned promotion after overcoming Black Stars from the Kampala Region 5-3 on aggregate. The first leg at Muteesa II Wankulukuku Stadium ended 1-1 before Buwambo United completed the job with a 4-2 victory in the return leg.