SC Villa came from behind to defeat URA 2-1 on Tuesday, putting them on the brink of their first Uganda Premier League title in 20 years.
After their coming from behind to score 3 second half goals and clinch a 3-2 win against Wakiso Giants at home last Wednesday, and comfortably winning UPDF 2-0 away in Bombo during the weekend, Villa were at it again on Matchday 29 when they came from behind to score 2 late goals and win URA for the first time since May, 2017.
Throughout the match at the Muteesa II Royal Stadium in Wankulukuku, the Tax Collectors seemed hard to break down for the Jogoos. An 80th-minute goal by URA’s Bruno Bunyaga put the visitors in front and sent shivers through the Villa fans.
However, Villa were not to be deterred. Defender Umar Lutalo equalized just 3 minutes later to calm the nerves, before Kenneth Semakula’s stunning strike from distance in the 87th minute secured all three points for the Jogoos, earning him the man of the match accolade.
Villa’s victory over URA not only sent them top of the UPL table with 54 points, but it also served as sweet revenge for last season’s heartbreak.
On the final day of the 2022/23 campaign, Villa were top of the standings with 52 points, only to lose to URA 1-0 and see the title slip away to their rivals Vipers on goal difference.
Now, with one game remaining, Villa find themselves in pole position to end their 20-year drought. Coach Dusan Stojanovic’s side will visit NEC at the MTN Omondi Stadium on Saturday, needing just a win to clinch their 17th UPL crown.
With 54 points, they have a point more than BUL and Vipers who are in second and third respectively, and 3 ahead of 4th placed Kitara. A win at Lugogo will hand Villa their hard-fought trophy, but short of that will bring about twists and turns on the final day of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
