Sam Ssimbwa made an immediate impact on his return as URA FC head coach, guiding the Tax Collectors to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over UPDF FC at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial, on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
The victory marked a welcome return to winning ways for URA FC, who had endured six consecutive league matches without a win since their opening-day 2-1 triumph over Maroons FC.
The result lifted the Tax Collectors to 13th place with seven points from eight matches, moving them out of the relegation zone and providing a timely boost ahead of their next assignment against Vipers SC.
Mugulusi Makes the Difference
Introduced at the start of the second half in place of Nelson Ssenkatuka, Isma Mugulusi proved decisive in a closely contested encounter.
The midfielder attacked down the left flank, taking on Robert Kitabalwa before delivering a dangerous low cross into the UPDF FC penalty area. Under pressure, defender Denis Ssekitoleko inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 62nd minute to hand URA FC the lead.
Three minutes later, the Tax Collectors came close to doubling their advantage. Captain Moses Aliro reacted quickest to a rebound from Mugulusi’s effort, but his attempt struck the woodwork with goalkeeper Shamran Kamya beaten.
Mugulusi’s introduction brought additional urgency and attacking intent to URA FC’s play, with the hosts creating more promising opportunities after the interval.
Improved Intensity After the Break
URA FC struggled to establish a consistent attacking rhythm in the first half, managing only one shot on target through Ssenkatuka, which Kamya saved.
However, the hosts returned from the break with greater attacking purpose and increased pressure on the visitors’ defence.
Ssimbwa also introduced Moses Waiswa for Abraham Tusubira, while Arthur Kiggundu replaced Ronald Otti as URA FC sought to strengthen their grip on the contest.
Aliro brought athleticism and directness to the attack, but could not convert several promising opportunities, including a one-on-one chance against Kamya, who stood firm to keep UPDF FC in contention.
The captain later went down following contact with Ssekitoleko inside the penalty area, but referee Joshua Dullah ruled that the challenge did not warrant a penalty.
Despite the missed chances, URA FC held on to secure three valuable points and give Ssimbwa a winning start to his second spell at the club.
Hafiz and Lubwama Stand Firm
At the other end, goalkeeper Khasim Hafiz played an important role in preserving URA FC’s advantage, making crucial interventions, including a notable save to deny Derick Taremwa.
Defender Joshua Lubwama Leti also delivered an important performance as the Tax Collectors maintained their defensive discipline to record a valuable clean sheet.
The result offered encouragement for a side looking to rebuild confidence and consistency after a difficult run of results in the opening weeks of the campaign.
A Familiar Face Returns to the Dugout
Ssimbwa’s return represents the beginning of a second chapter with URA FC, having previously managed the club between 2018 and 2022.
The experienced tactician has returned on a one-year contract, renewable, replacing Jimmy Kintu Mwera, whose departure was announced by mutual consent alongside members of his backroom staff.
His first assignment ended with the desired outcome, as URA FC combined defensive resilience with improved second-half attacking intent to secure maximum points.
The challenge now is to build on that performance and turn Tuesday’s result into a sustained recovery in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
Next Up: Vipers SC
URA FC will return to Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial, on Saturday, October 31, for a demanding encounter against Vipers SC, with kick-off scheduled for 8:00 PM.
The Tax Collectors will be eager to carry the momentum from their victory over UPDF FC into the contest as Ssimbwa continues his work to restore consistency and competitiveness to the team.
Meanwhile, UPDF FC, who remain on eight points from seven matches and sit 11th, will host Kitara FC at Hamz Stadium on the same day, with kick-off scheduled for 5:00 PM.
For URA FC, the message is clear: the win over UPDF FC is an important first step, but the focus now shifts to building on the renewed belief and fighting spirit shown under their returning head coach.