Uganda Cup: Maroons storm round of 16

Goal-keeping heroics yet again proved vital as Maroons FC progressed to the round of 16 of the Uganda Cup at the expense of Amuria Crane City at Soroti Sports Grounds.

The tie had to be decided by the dreaded spot-kicks - after 90 minutes ended goalless - and it was the visitors that took the day with a 4-1 victory.

Maroons were dominant for long periods but they were often frustrated by home side centre-back Olum Simon Peter whose presence in defence was as solid as it was significant.

Crane City skipper and goalkeeper Orit Ibrahim was equally impressive in marshaling his side to keep out the marauding visitors.

But the hosts almost trailed in the second half when Solomon Ewol's rasping shot struck the woodwork following excellent crosses into the box by forward Peter Otai.

That was the best chance of the game.

And with either side failing to draw first blood, the game went straight into penalties.

Maroons custodian Jamil Maliyamungu stepped up the challenge and he did impress, his three saves earning him hero status.

After saving the first penalty, he followed into the footsteps of his captain Sylvester Okello and struck brilliantly.

Denis Rukundo and Eddy Muyingo converted the other two penalties to send the visitors to the next level.

After the game, Maliyamungu had his goalkeeping coach Godfrey Atiku to thank for his steely presence in goal.

"Winning games like these for my team makes me happy and I must credit my coach. I believe these wins build the team's confidence in me and I am determined to give them more wins."