URA FC suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to KCCA FC in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Authority Derby at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, on Friday night, as the Tax Collectors continue their search for a return to winning ways.
Returning striker Ivan Ahimbisibwe scored the decisive goal in the 59th minute, handing the Kasasiro Boys maximum points in a closely contested Independence Day encounter played under the floodlights.
Despite the setback, the Tax Collectors remained competitive throughout the contest and had opportunities to get back into the game, only to be denied by missed chances.
URA goalkeeper Muhammad Ssekeba was called into action early in the match, with KCCA threatening on the counterattack in the 16th minute. Emmanuel Anyama, however, failed to capitalise on the opportunity, sending his effort wide.
The first half remained closely fought, with both sides battling for control as the teams went into the break level.
KCCA eventually broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when Ahimbisibwe reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area before curling his effort into the far-left corner beyond Ssekeba.
The Kasasiro were handed an opportunity to double their lead in the 81st minute after James Begisa fouled Sammy Ssebaduka inside the penalty area.
Referee Shamira Nabadda pointed to the spot, giving the visitors an advantage , but Ahimbisibwe sent his penalty over the crossbar.
URA pushed on in search of an equaliser, but the visitors held firm to claim the victory.
Focus Shifts to the Next Challenge
The result leaves URA FC with three points after four league matches, with the team determined to turn its early-season fortunes around.
Attention now shifts to the next assignment against Entebbe UPPC FC, where the Tax Collectors will be looking to respond positively, rediscover their winning form and get their campaign back on track next week on Thursday at Hamz Stadium.
While the Authority Derby did not produce the result the team and its supporters had hoped for, the focus remains on learning from the setback, improving in key areas and working collectively towards better performances.