URA FC produced a spirited performance under the floodlights at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende to hold league leaders Vipers SC to a 1-1 draw in Friday’s Uganda Premier League encounter.
The Tax Collectors looked destined for a memorable away victory after defender Ronald Otti powered home in the first half, before Usama Arafat restored parity for the hosts after the restart.
Coming up against the league’s unbeaten side on their own turf, URA FC showed discipline, determination and tactical organisation throughout the contest while creating dangerous moments from set pieces and quick transitions.
The breakthrough arrived in the 35th minute when Isma Mugulusi delivered a dangerous free kick into the area and Otti rose highest to thunder a header beyond the Vipers goalkeeper Denis Kiggundu for a deserved URA FC lead.
The tax collectors maintained their defensive solidity for the remainder of the opening half and comfortably carried a 1-0 advantage into the break as Vipers struggled to find clear openings.
However, the Venoms responded quickly after halftime. Four minutes into the second period, Ashraf Mandela launched a long throw into the area before Hillary Mukundane’s header crashed against the crossbar, allowing Usama Arafat to react quickest and head home the rebound.
Both sides pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but URA FC stood firm to secure an important away point against the table leaders.
Following his commanding display at the heart of defence and his crucial opening goal, Ronald Otti was deservedly named the Man of the Match at full time.
The result leaves Vipers SC top of the table on 60 points with three matches left to play, while URA FC move to 26 points, enough to mathematically secure their Uganda Premier League status for next season.
URA FC will now turn attention to their next fixture at home against Calvary FC on May 12.