Lugazi FC picked up another precious point in the Uganda Premier League after a cagey goalless draw with URA FC on Wednesday. The Leaders now sit in the third place on the table at the time of writing, with five points after four rounds of play.

Co-coaches Francis Mugerwa and Steven Bogere kept faith in the starting line-up that began the KCCA FC game six days ago, while youngster Alvin Birungi made it to the match day squad for the first time this season  after recovering from an injury sustained last season.

The game at the Lugazi FC Stadium – Najjembe was highlighted by hits on the woodwork and some impressive shot stopping by the goalkeepers as the sides made some decent chances that could have seen the three points head either way.

Goalkeeper Juma Mutebi denied Amis Bwangani in the early moments of the game when he superbly deflected his free-kick away, and stood out throughout the game to record his second clean sheet this term.

Following a well-orchestrated team move, stylish midfielder David Bagoole then came close to breaking the deadlock for Lugazi FC in the 23rd minute when a poorly cleared ball by old boy Faizo Matovu found him lurking around the goal area and hit it with precision – with his right boot but it ricocheted off the bar and out.

Moses Aliro also hit the post for the Tax Collectors before Richard Ayiko cleared Nelson Ssenkatuka’s looped header off the lines following Aliro’s tempting delivery into the box.

Chrispas Kusiima in URA’s goal was later called into action by industrious midfielder Derrick Mwanje and defender Rogers Atube but the goalkeeper was equal to the task.

Soon afterwards, Mutebi put up a fine show of his when he raced off his line to block Abraham Tusubira’ effort with just 15 minutes left on the clock.

Striker Alfred Leku gave the URA defenders a run for their money all the time and one would be right to say he was just unlucky not score.

Lugazi FC will be back on the road next week with a trip to Hoima City on Thursday to face Kitara FC at the Royal Park.

Staring XI:

Juma Mutebi (GK), Richard Ayiko ©, Derrick Mwanje, Sharif Saaka, David Bagoole, Adam Mutesaasira (Abdul Kalanzi 46’), Paul Wasswa, Alfred Leku, Amos Etoju, Rogers Atube, Freedom Mungudit.

Unused Substitutes:

Allan Igama Batali (GK), Dauson Mafumu, Joseph Othieno, Ashiraf Mulindi, Moses Buga, Paul Busolo, Solomon Okwalinga, Alvin Birungi, Juma Ssajjabi.