Record Champions, SC Villa maiden victory against the Ankole Lions of Mbarara City FC at their own turf, Kakyeka Stadium came to pass on Wednesday in a 2-0 triumph that was overshadowed by four red cards.
SC Villa seeking to complete a double over Livingston Mbabazi charges were headed for a tricky fixture, with the hosts aiming to boost their survival chances in the Ugandan top-flight.
The home team started the match on the front foot, dominating the early exchanges from the opening whistle. Paul Busolo and former player Peter Onzima had chances to break the deadlock after sustained pressure.
Villa stabilized later in the contest, Andrew Otim effort inside the box was denied by Mbarara City custodian Abdul Kimera before a strike from forward Charles Lwanga that hit the post, ending goalless at halftime.
In the final stanza after re-start, Villa goals and players being sent off highlights the tension and potential fan outburst that transpired on a dramatic showdown between the two entities in the battlefield.
Villa opened the scoring in the 48th minute, substitute Aslam Semakula with instant impact off the bench, tapping home from Kakande cross to hand the visitors a 1-0 lead on the enemy territory.
A bloody scene erupted in the 53rd minute following a challenge in the middle of the park, that left referee Henry Musisi with no choice, Ankole Lions player Sadick Nasur and Villa skipper David Owori leaving the pitch prematurely after being red-carded.
The Jogoos numerical advantage continued to reduce, goalkeeping coach Yusuf Ssenyonjo was also sent off moments later and defender Geoffrey Lubangakene followed suit for a challenge on Kitegenyi.
Villa put the game beyond reach towards the closing stages of the bout, Martin Owalamu connected in his own net in the 74th minute off Lwanga brilliance to walk away with maximum points from a hostile environment.
