By Dismas Nuwaine
The Uganda Christian University Lady Cardinals started the day on a high as they edged past the Kyambogo University Ladies team with a narrow win of 1–0.
In today’s hotly contested encounter, the lady cardinals braved the relentless rains to secure their victory. This first win on home turf places the Cardinals in a better position as they head for their next encounter.
Coming into the game, the Cardinals were the obvious favorites for the clash, with their home turf and women’s league experience working to their advantage. However, the determined Banda-based side gave them a run for their money.
In the opening stages of the game, Halima Kayondo, the Cardinals attacking midfielder, thought she had scored when she connected to a through ball from Nicole Atimaku. However, this goal was cancelled by the referee after she appeared to have bundled into the keeper.
The cardinals hardened full back, and Nicole sent another teasing cross in the opposite goal area, to which Kisakye Sandra connected, only to hit the woodwork. The chances kept coming for the Cardinals for the entirety of the first half. The MUBS ladies team held on until the referee called for a half-time break.
UCU remained on the offensive in the second half. The first real chance came as Kisakye Sandra sent a teasing cross to Matama Fiona, who connected to the shot but was deflected off for a corner.
Apio Faith was fouled in the resulting corner, and the referee pointed to the spot. There was little to no protest from the Nakawa-based team as Kisakye Sandra stepped up to take the penalty.
Kisakye calmly tucked the ball home, leaving the keeper completely bamboozled. The cardinals held on until the final whistle.
“We have had our first game and have managed to garner three points and one goal. We don’t like the results per se, but we keep going on and trust the process,” said Shadia Nakya, captain of the Lady Cardinals.
The towering defender did not exactly poke fingers at the relentless rainfall as a cause for their below-par performances.
“It’s not the rain that we have to blame; there’s something about first games; they are just never easy,” said Shadia.
However, Igrid Karungi, the captain of the MUBS football team, believes the weather gave them a turf test and believes that in the future they will register better performances.
“This game has helped us, and we know our challenges. We are playing against a side that is in the women’s league, and the score line is very slim. We are going to work on our challenges and ensure that we come back stronger and better,” said Igrid, assuring.
