Express overcome UPDF test as Lugazi hold Stars

Express concluded their Uganda Premier League first round on a positive note following a 2-0 win over UPDF at the Bombo Barracks on Monday evening.

The result lifted the Red Eagles to 25 points to rise above KCCA into third position before their game away to Mbarara on Tuesday.

Forward Sam Ssenyonjo was the architect of the victory setting up in-form partner Conrad Ssenjogera for the first goal on 54 minutes 

The goal was the striker's third in two games having scored a double to clinch a 2-1 win over Bright Stars in the previous game.

Ssenyonjo then scored the second goal from the penalty spot, sending UPDF goalkeeper Richard Anyama the wrong way after Geoffrey Gagganga had been fouled.

The goal was Ssenyonjo's eighth of the campaign and Express will be desperate to retain him following his first round exploits.

Defeat for UPDF was meanwhile only the second in Bombo this season and leaves them on 17 points, six clear of safety.

At Kavumba, hosts Bright Stars and Lugazi failed to gain any significant ground in their respective relegation fight after playing out a 1-all draw.

Lugazi will particularly view the result as two points dropped after substitute Sharif Ssaka inexplicably turned the ball over the bar when on the goalline

They had also taken the lead four minutes before the break when defender Nelson Mandela flicked a header from Abdul Kalanzi's freekick.

But an improved second half display sparked by John Koukas Alou' introduction helped Bright Star pull level with midfielder Alex Mandera connecting with Johnson Odong's freekick three minutes after the hour mark.

The result means the Stars will start the second round in the relegation zone while Lugazi are 12th with 14 points, three above the relegation zone.

StarTimes Uganda Premier League 

Results 

Bright Stars 1-1 Lugazi 

UPDF 0-2 Express

Vipers 1-0 Maroons