URA FC will shift focus to the return leg of the Uganda Cup semifinals with belief intact, despite a 2-0 defeat to SC Villa in the first leg on Monday night.
In a contest decided by fine margins, the Tax Collectors showed spells of control and intent but were ultimately undone by two key moments, one in each half that handed the visitors the advantage.
SC Villa threatened early, with Frank Ssebuufu heading just over from a well-delivered cross, before taking the lead in the 25th minute.
A quick attacking move saw Patrick Jonah Kakande combine with Hassan Mubiru, who set up Najib Yiga for a composed finish.
There was also a moment of controversy in the 18th minute when Mubiru’s high challenge on Ronald Otti resulted in a booking for the URA defender, a decision that left the hosts aggrieved.
Head coach Hussein Mbalangu reacted by introducing captain Moses Aliro before halftime for Fred Amaku as URA looked to regain control.
The hosts enjoyed more possession as the half progressed but found it difficult to break down a well-organised Villa defence, heading into the break trailing by a single goal.
After the restart, URA returned with greater urgency and nearly found an equaliser in the 67th minute.
Disan Galiwango’s powerful free kick forced a brilliant save from goalkeeper David Lukwago, with the resulting corner unable to yield a breakthrough.
Pushing forward in search of a leveller, URA were caught late on, as pressure from substitute Andrew Otim forced a defensive error that resulted in an unfortunate own goal by Moses Aliro deep into stoppage time.
While the scoreline gives SC Villa the edge, URA FC will take encouragement from their performance and remain firmly in the contest ahead of the decisive second leg on May 16 at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba.
With 90 minutes still to play, the Tax Collectors will believe they have what it takes to respond, overturn the deficit, and fight their way into the final.