Ibrahim Dada proved the match-winner on the evening when he scored with seven minutes on the clock to grant URA FC a marginal 2-1 victory over relegation-threatened Onduparaka FC at the Arena of Visions, Ndejje University.
Dada’s strike, after only coming on the pitch as a second-half substitute, was a complement to Steven Mukwala’s 35th strike that had given the Tax Collectors a lead in the game. Safi Mansoor had equalized for the visitors to make the game levelled.
Sam Timbe’s side had a brighter start to the game with the first realistic goalscoring attempt coming in the 22nd minute, only for Mukwala to miss from close range.
This was before the skipper, Shafik Kagimu also saw his ferocious attempt in the 26th minute saved by Michael Kagiri in the opposition goal in rather agonizing circumstances.
Nafian Alionzi in the URA goal would make a brilliant stop four minutes later to keep out Patrick Sserunjogi’s header.
He would also deny Mohammad Shaban a few minutes later but was helped by Patrick Mbowa this time round who made a goal-line clearance from the rebound by the former Vipers SC player.
The moment of magic came ten minutes later when Mukwala showed immense composure to rebound Viane Ssekajugo’s headed flick and finally broke the deadlock. This came as restitution for his earlier miss.
After Onduparaka had levelled matters, Timbe was forced into a double change midway into the second half, bringing on Cromwel Rwothomio and Dada Ibrahim for Viane Ssekajugo and Moses Sseruyidde respectively.
Dada would restore the lead with just seven minutes on the clock, rising highest to head in Ivan Sserubiri’s cross and deservingly. That was the final blow for the visitors.
The results mean URA FC return to winning ways after a 0-0 draw against Mbarara City at kakyeka and move to 38 points in 20 games. They remain five points behind leaders Vipers SC and two behind second-placed KCCA (who have both played a game less).