By: Geoffrey Mugabi
The Startimes Uganda Premier League matchday thirteen kicks off today with a crucial encounter between struggling Soltilo Bright Stars and UPDF FC at the Kavumba Recreation Ground.
Interim head coach Ian Mutenda will be at the helm for Bright Stars, who are reeling from a 0-1 loss to NEC FC in their previous league outing.
The hosts are languishing at the bottom of the table with a paltry six points and a solitary victory from 12 games.
A second win of the season could provide a much-needed boost for Bright Stars, but it won’t be an easy task against a UPDF FC side seeking to climb to fourth place with a win.
The visitors have struggled on the road, registering only one victory, losing three, and drawing two.
UPDF FC head coach Paul Kiwanuka, a former Bright Stars coach, will be eager to get one over his former employers. His side drew 1-1 with Mbale Heroes in their previous match.
Historically, Bright Stars have had the upper hand in this fixture, edging UPDF FC 2-1 in Kavumba last season.
The visitors’ last win at Kavumba dates back to the 2015-16 season.
A win for Bright Stars could propel them to 14th place with nine points, although they would still be entrenched in the relegation zone.
UPDF FC will be without the services of Ronald Kayondo, Aggrey Kirya, Samson Kigozi, Lubwama Enrique, and Shakib Mayanja due to various injuries.
Bright Stars, on the other hand, will miss John Kokas Alou and Alex Mandela, but Fiat Cleophus and Marvin Youngman have returned to full training and are available for selection after missing the NEC game.
