Aaron Junior Musiime scored twice as Elite defeated Gladiators 2-1 to win their first-ever SMACK League Main Cup title in the Season Eight final at Kampala Rugby Club on Sunday.
The 2008 cohort justified their favourites tag in a thrilling Guinness-sponsored finale, with Musiime proving the difference on the day.
Elite took the lead in the first half when Musiime reacted quickest to a loose ball following a long throw into the penalty area, firing a sweet half-volley beyond goalkeeper Ngati Solomon.
Gladiators responded before halftime, taking advantage of a goalmouth scramble to restore parity and send the teams into the break level at 1-1.
With the match heading for a tense finish, Musiime capitalised on a defensive mistake late in the second half, calmly slotting home the winner to seal Elite’s historic triumph.
“It’s an incredible feeling. I am happy to have scored the winning goals, but this title belongs to the entire team. Everyone worked hard throughout the season and today we were rewarded for that effort,” said Musiime.
Earlier, Knights claimed third place after beating Phantoms 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Mafiaz lifted the Founders Cup courtesy of Lucas Mwanda’s late winner against Vikings.
Off the field, title sponsors Guinness enhanced the occasion with entertainment, fan experiences and discounted offers on selected products.
Speaking after the final, Guinness Brand Manager Denise Nazzinda congratulated the league on a successful eighth season and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting football development through Old Boys competitions.
She said Guinness will continue backing competitions including the Chaapa League, Mwiri League, Ngo League, Butiki League and Shack League.
SMACK League CEO Patrick Wetaka hailed Season Eight as one of the competition’s most successful campaigns, thanking partners for helping elevate the league’s profile.
“We started the season at the IUEA Grounds in Kansanga before moving to Kampala Rugby Club for the final stretch. We hope this will become our home for the next campaign,” Wetaka said.
The finale also featured a free medical camp organised in partnership with Case Clinic, while DJs Bugy, Beast and LB entertained fans before Heroes Band and award-winning singer Winnie Nwagi capped off the celebrations with live performances.
The SMACK League is expected to return later this year for Season Nine.
Post a comment