NEC's woeful start to the season has taken another hit with a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Entebbe UPPC. The loss came in the absence of their suspended head coach, Hussein Mbalangu, and saw the team fail to capitalize on their chances, ultimately succumbing to a second-half goal.

The decisive strike was scored by Samuel Junior Kawawa on the 60th minute, courtesy of a perfectly weighted cross from Gift Odong. This win marked Entebbe UPPC's second of the season, propelling them into the top four with seven points.

For NEC, the loss was a continuation of their inconsistent form, having previously drawn two games, including a frustrating encounter against Police where they surrendered a 2-0 lead to draw. Interim coach James Odoch, who made his debut in this game, will have to wait until their next match, potentially against Mbarara City next Saturday, to secure his and the team's first win.

Currently, NEC languishes in 13th place on the 16-team standings with just two points. Entebbe UPPC, on the other hand, looks forward to a challenging encounter at home against reigning champions Vipers on November 1.