Muhammad Shaban scored a perfect hatrick as Onduparaka FC beat Police FC 4-1 in the Star-Times Uganda Premier League at MTN Omondi Stadium on Friday.
In the encounter that started with a minute of silence in honour of the Lt. Hon. Jacob Oulanyah, the visitors started away to press highly not allowing to find any space.
Norman Ojik nearly found the back of the net off Rashid Yanik’s delivery but his resultant effort couldn’t meet the target from close range.
Tom Ikara’s blunder nearly gifted Onduparaka but Tonny Kiwalazi was quick to block Mansoor Safi Angu’s shot on the left.
In the 22nd minute, Muhammad Shaban made a quick run and placed the ball on the near post to beat Ikara hence giving the visitors a lead.
Juma Balinya failed to node home Duncan Senninde’s inch-perfect cross to deny Police a consolation ten minutes into the second stanza.
Eric Senjobe lost position in the box before Ojik unleashed a powerful shot but Ikara was in the right place to punch the ball out for a corner kick.
In the 67th minute, quick footed Duncan Seninde was fouled in the area by Gasper Adriko.
Juma Balinya stepped up and converted from the spot to level the matters.
Three minutes later, Shaban beat his maker Senjobe to pace went past Ikara and placed the ball into an empty net.
Frank Kalanda sighted Tony Mawejje but the experienced midfielder hit the ball way above the goal.
Six minutes to play James Jareiko laid a low cross and Shaban tapped home from close range to complete a personal hatrick.
Emmanuel Oketch remained with a keeper to beat sent the crowds on it’s feet after scoring the fourth on the day.
The victory takes the Caterpillars to the ninth position with 27 points while Police are 13th with 24 point from 24 games.
In the next game, Police will be visitors to Mbarara City on Tuesday April 12 while Onduparaka will host Villa on Wednesday.