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Derrick Akampurira
Kisoro district has written a fresh page in its football history after SC Volcanoes were officially crowned champions of the Western Regional League following a commanding 5-0 victory over Kihihi Young Boys FC in their final match of the season.
The Mutolere-based side sealed the title in dominant fashion at a fully charged atmosphere, finishing the campaign unbeaten with 52 points and a staggering 45 goal difference, cementing their status as one of the most formidable teams in regional football this season.
Led by a sensational hat trick from captain Mandela Alex, SC Volcanoes delivered a football masterclass that left supporters celebrating what many described as the return of football glory to Kisoro.
The champions arrived at the stadium at exactly 3:10 PM ahead of the 4:11 PM kickoff, while Kihihi Young Boys reached the venue thirty minutes later as anticipation built among fans and dignitaries who had gathered to witness the crowning moment.
From the opening minutes, Volcanoes imposed themselves aggressively, with the midfield led by Fiat dictating the pace and creating early pressure on the visitors.
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when Mandela Alex connected perfectly from a Muheirwe set piece before calmly firing home the opener to give Volcanoes a 1-0 lead.
Despite attempts by Kihihi Young Boys to regain control through patient build-up play, the champions continued to dominate possession and attack relentlessly from all corners of the pitch, earning multiple set pieces and stretching the opposition defense.
In the 24th minute, Muheirwe Devis, popularly known as Ronaldo, doubled the advantage with a clinical finish to make it 2-0 before Volcanoes tightened their grip on the contest.
Kihihi Young Boys attempted to respond through counterattacks and midfield movements, but Volcanoes’ disciplined defensive line remained compact and composed throughout the first half.
Mandela Alex struck again in the 39th minute, capitalizing on another attacking move to extend the lead to 3-0 before completing his hat trick moments later to send the home crowd into wild celebrations as the first half ended 4-0.
After the break, SC Volcanoes slightly reduced the tempo, allowing Kihihi Young Boys more possession and attacking opportunities. The visitors created several threatening movements through their shirt number 25 and number 10, earning multiple corners, but failed to break through the solid Volcanoes backline.
Volcanoes, however, remained dangerous on transitions with Babuji leading several attacking runs despite improved resistance from Kihihi.
The final blow arrived in the 89th minute when Rukyamuzi Julius netted the fifth goal, adding to his impressive tally of 18 goals this season and sealing an emphatic 5-0 victory for the newly crowned champions.
Kihihi Young Boys continued pressing in the closing moments, but their late attacks failed to alter the scoreline as the final whistle confirmed SC Volcanoes as official Western Regional League champions.
Speaking after the match, head coach Patrick Ochan declared that the club’s focus has now shifted entirely toward the upcoming FUFA Big League saying that they are waiting for the FUFA to announce and confirm the playoff dates adding that as the team they are well prepared.
Ochan also revealed that despite their dominant season, the technical bench will now focus on improving attacking efficiency and tactical organization ahead of the playoffs where Volcanoes are expected to face Booma from Kitara regional league who also crown as the champions.
He also praised the squad’s discipline and consistency after the club completed the season unbeaten while conceding only three goals.
He also dedicated the championship trophy to the supporters across Kisoro district and the entire western region crediting them for standing firmly behind the team throughout the season.
The coach also applauded the growth of football talent within Kisoro and Western Uganda, calling for increased investment in youth development and stronger football structures to nurture emerging players.
He also CV commended the commitment from the club leadership including Club president Dr. Martin Mbonye and the Club vice president Captain Arthur mugisha rucakatsi for unwavering support and building the team.
Mandela Alex ,the team captain who managed to score 3 goals for sc volcanoes as they crown the trophy also highlighted that ,as the team they are committed towards taking the club in the next level FUFA big league saying that players are committed towards the progress of the club.
He also commended the management of the club for supporting players financially identifying it as the one of things that motivated players for keeping on improving.
SC Volcanoes Vice President Flight Captain Arthur Mugisha Rucakatsi, commonly known as Bubu, described the championship as a major milestone in the club’s long term ambition of reaching Uganda’s top flight levels in football.
He further hailed the contribution of the technical team led by former Uganda Cranes midfielder Patrick Ochan and applauded the players for their outstanding commitment throughout the campaign.
Beyond football success, captain Arthur mugisha rucakatsi revealed several empowerment projects aimed at preparing players for life beyond the sport such as different projects and equipping players with different practical skills
He also disclosed plans to establish a women’s football team and a football academy as part of their long term development agenda.
Speaking during the championship celebrations, Kisoro District LC5 Chairperson Richard Ndyana commended SC Volcanoes and the club leadership for promoting youth talent and uplifting the image of Kisoro through sports.
He pledged continued support toward the team as it prepares for the next level in Ugandan football.
Meanwhile, Kihihi young boys has been relegated to the fourth division after finishing in the 10th position of the table.
Meanwhile the event was embraced by the western FUFA chairperson ,CEO among other district dignitaries including district RDC,kisoro municipality mayor among other.
