UPL: 10-Man URA FC Held by NEC FC
By: Geoffrey Mugabi
The Uganda Premier League table leaders, NEC FC, shared the spoils with 10-man URA FC on Thursday evening under the floodlights of the Nakivubo Stadium.
Godfrey Ssekibengo netted for URA FC in the first half, but Paul Mucureezi equalized in the second half to force a 1-1 draw.
The table leaders, NEC FC, had more goal-scoring opportunities in the first stanza, but URA FC’s defense was equal to the task, stopping the visitors from scoring.
James Begisa and goalkeeper Rogers Omedwa were the heroes who rescued URA FC.
Ivan Ahimbisibwe had a chance to put URA FC in the lead, but he was denied by former URA FC goalkeeper Hannington Sebwalunyo.
In the 23rd minute, the in-form youngster Godfrey Ssekibengo put the hosts in the lead with a powerful ground shot. This was his second goal in back-to-back games, scored in the same style.
Coach Isabirye’s boys defended the slim lead in the first stanza.
In the second half, Paul Mucureezi was a threat, failing to find the back of the net on two occasions.
Mucureezi’s efforts eventually paid off as he netted the equalizer with 20 minutes to the final whistle. Defender Hudu Mulikyi was given a red card in the 78th minute.
Despite being a man down, URA FC defended well and managed to get a draw against the table leaders.
URA FC is now 8th on the summit with 15 points, only behind the top four.
For NEC FC, they stayed at the top of the table with 23 points, but if Vipers beat Soltilo Bright Stars on Saturday, the Venoms will take the top spot over Mbalangu’s side.
Meanwhile, earlier today, Mbarara lost 0-3 to Maroons FC at home. Baden Ogama Mujahid netted a brace, and Godwin Kitagenda added one.
The matchday eleven of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League continues on Friday with two games, as defending champions SC Villa host newcomers Lugazi FC, while Mbale Heroes FC visit Kitara FC.
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