By Barbara Nalweyiso.
Ntugasaze FC edged Onduparaka FC with a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Ababet Green light Stadium in Arua City, in a match that saw both teams exhibit resilience and tactical discipline.
Despite playing on home turf, Onduparaka FC began the encounter with urgency, mounting early pressure that saw them win two consecutive corner kicks within the first six minutes.
However, their hopes of an early breakthrough were thwarted by Ntugasaze FC’s goalkeeper, Kenneth Lukyamuzi—widely known as Given—who showcased outstanding reflexes to deny them any scoring opportunities.
As the game unfolded, Ntugasaze FC gradually found its rhythm, pushing forward with calculated attacks. In the eighth minute, they earned their first corner kick, yet it failed to yield a goal.
Nonetheless, their persistence bore fruit in the 28th minute when James Jarieko produced a moment of brilliance, breaking the deadlock with a well-executed strike.
Demonstrating impeccable control, he first tamed the ball with his left foot before unleashing a powerful shot with his right, leaving the Onduparaka defense and goalkeeper helpless.
The intensity of the contest escalated as both sides vied for dominance. Ntugasaze FC, eager to extend their lead, squandered two promising chances, while Onduparaka FC struggled to regain control.
The heightened tempo saw Jarieko receive a yellow card in the 33rd minute for a rash challenge, moments before the referee signaled the end of the first half, with Ntugasaze FC leading 1-0 after four minutes of added time.
The second half unfolded with Onduparaka FC displaying renewed aggression in search of an equalizer.
However, Ntugasaze FC, aware of the stakes, prioritized defensive solidity to safeguard their slim lead.
Despite relentless efforts from the hosts, the visitors held firm, frustrating every attacking move and maintaining their one-goal advantage until the final whistle.
While the entire Ntugasaze FC squad delivered a commendable performance, two players stood out for their exceptional contributions.
Jakisa Eric emerged as a key defensive pillar, repeatedly intercepting crucial plays and clearing the ball from dangerous areas.
Equally pivotal was Kenneth Lukyamuzi, whose remarkable saves ensured that Onduparaka FC remained goalless, thereby cementing Ntugasaze FC’s well-earned victory.
League Standings and Upcoming Fixtures
Onduparaka FC, which had commenced the league campaign with optimism and aspirations of returning to the Uganda Super League, now finds itself teetering on the brink, languishing in 11th place with 22 points.
Meanwhile, Ntugasaze FC, capitalizing on their recent form, has climbed to 10th place, also with 22 points but with a superior head-to-head advantage.
Ntugasaze FC’s victory extends their winning streak to two consecutive matches, having previously secured a 3-1 triumph over Calvary FC on Sunday, March 16.
They now set their sights on their next challenge—a home fixture against Paidha Black Angels FC on Sunday, April 6, at Mityana Saza Ground.
Conversely, Onduparaka FC finds itself in a precarious position, having suffered five consecutive defeats.
Their immediate task will be an away fixture against Gaddafi FC, a match that could prove pivotal in their fight to regain form and avoid further relegation concerns.
With the league intensifying, Ntugasaze FC will be looking to build on their momentum, while Onduparaka FC must regroup and strategize if they are to reverse their fortunes before the season slips further out of their grasp.
Have An Advert Or Article You Want Us To Publish? Whatsapp: +256786288379 or email binocularugnews@gmail.com
