URA frustrate Kitara’s title charge in Royals Park stalemate

Kitara FC saw their march toward the summit of the Uganda Premier League checked after a hard-fought 1-1 draw with URA FC at Royals Park, Butema, on Thursday.

The result leaves Kitara second on 36 points, two adrift of leaders Vipers SC, whom they hold a superior head-to-head record against.

Victory would have lifted the hosts level at the top. URA, meanwhile, remain 13th with 15 points from 17 matches.

Kitara struck early intent when George Senkaba rose above a crowded penalty area in the 12th minute, powering home Musisi Muyomba’s long free-kick to hand the hosts the advantage.

URA, winless in front of goal for eight league outings, had opted for caution, starting with defensive-minded midfielders Joshua Lubwama and George Masembe.

Tactical adjustments followed before the break, as Hussein Mbalangu introduced Innocent Kisolo for Masembe in the 37th minute to add attacking impetus.

The visitors found their breakthrough in the 66th minute. Norman Namanya drilled a fierce snapshot through a sea of bodies after goalkeeper Meddie Kibirige failed to deal convincingly with a set piece.

Two minutes later, Kitara’s task grew steeper when defender Isa Lumu received a straight red card.

Among the spectators was Shaban Muhammad, recently secured in a mega deal by Kitara and awaiting official unveiling.