Maroons secure Premier League promotion

PIC: Maroons defender Eddy Kapampa goes after the ball during their 3-1 win over Kyambogo FC. (Credit: Jacky Achan)

FUFA BIG LEAGUE

Tuesday result

Maroons 3  Kyambogo 1

Maroons FC sealed automatic promotion back to the Azam Uganda Premier League with a 3-1 victory over Kyambogo University on Tuesday.

Two weeks ago, the game between the two sides was called off after Kyambogo claimed their goalkeeper had died, an allegation that turned out to be false.

And when they eventually met, Maroons knew that victory would take them back to top tier football.

Patrick Kaddu put the hosts in front from the spot as early as the seventh minute to ensure that the promotion-bound outfit take a lead into the break.

Eleven minutes into the second half, Patrick Obuya doubled Maroons' lead with an angled finish to put the contest beyond Kyambogo and shine the light even more at the end of Maroons' tunnel.

Kyambogo got respite in 75th minute with Ibrah Kaddu's wonder goal halving their opponents' advantage.

That hope was shortlived however as a Shadrack Otyang's own goal from a well delivered Kaddu cross two minutes later all but ended the game as a contest and secure Maroons a place with the elite come next season.

Back to top-flight football . . .

Victory ensured Maroons will finish as Rwenzori Group leaders. They will have to face Elgon Group winners Masavu FC, who have already sealed promotion, to decide who is crowned FUFA Big League 2016/17 champions.

"This is the moment we have been waiting for. We have worked hard for it even if we faltered a few times," said Maroons coach Asaph Mwebaze Jr.

He said FUFA Big League was a learning curve for the club and ensured they reflected upon their performance that saw them relegated from Premier League a while back.

"We will sit with the Uganda Prisons Service board and decide how to strengthen our team and most importantly keep our players for a longer stay in the Premier League."

Next up, Maroons will face Busia Fisheries on Friday in a game they can afford to lose as they will still top Rwenzori Group.