ZOMBO, UGANDA: Paidha United SC secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Okokoro United FC in a tense West Nile Regional League encounter at King’s Stadium, Cana, boosting their push in the second leg of the season.
The hosts made a dream start, with striker Ronie opening the scoring just two minutes into the match, finishing calmly into the right corner after a precise assist from midfielder Pogba.
Paidha dominated the early exchanges in a physical and high-tempo first half, heading into the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.
Okokoro United were dealt an early setback when their first-choice goalkeeper sustained a knee injury and struggled through the remainder of the half before being substituted at halftime.
Tensions escalated further when the visitors’ head coach was sent off for unlawfully entering the pitch, forcing him to watch proceedings from outside the technical area.
Paidha doubled their advantage in the second half through midfielder Zaza, whose looping header crossed the line despite an attempted clearance by an Okokoro defender.
The home side created additional chances, including a free kick that struck the woodwork and a volley from Ronie that narrowly missed the target.
Okokoro United also came close late on, hitting the woodwork, but failed to find a breakthrough.
Paidha United’s Public Relations Officer, Lee Ofoymungu, described the result as a significant boost following their 2-1 away loss to Odramacaku FC last week.
The win strengthens Paidha’s momentum in the second round as they aim to climb the standings.
Okokoro United’s PRO, Erick Happy, attributed the defeat to fatigue and the absence of five key players who have since joined clubs in the DR Congo league.
The Maracha-based side, currently sitting 7th with 19 points (pending updates), has struggled for form in recent matches, while Paidha United remains in 9th position.
In other results, Arua Airfield and Parombo Mission Stars both secured goalless draws against Kochi Urban and Lia FC, respectively.
Up Next
Paidha United will host Total FC from Yumbe next weekend at King’s Stadium, Cana.
Meanwhile, Paidha Black Angels SC, currently third in the FUFA Big League, will host a preparatory friendly against Bisengo FC from DR Congo on Sunday at Barokoro Stadium.
Club PRO Francis Thomas Otwikende said the match will serve as key preparation ahead of their upcoming away fixture against Ntungasaze FC in Wakiso District.
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