Henry Kitegenyi’s 80th-minute header handed Mbarara City a crucial 1-0 victory over Mbale Heroes at Mbale Stadium on Thursday, deepening the hosts’ relegation struggles.
Kitegenyi, Mbarara’s seasoned forward, rose highest to meet a cross and guide it past the helpless Mbale Heroes goalkeeper, sealing the visitors’ fifth win of the season.
The result lifts the Ankole Lions three places to 10th on the Uganda Premier League table with 20 points, while Mbale Heroes remain rock-bottom with just 10 points from 16 matches.
It was a tough debut for newly appointed Mbale Heroes head coach Baker Mbowa, whose side put up a spirited fight but ultimately fell short.
The club’s return to the top flight has been plagued by on and off-field struggles, and despite changes in technical and playing staff, positive results remain elusive.
With only 14 matches left, relegation looms large unless drastic improvements are made.
Having registered only two wins in 16 games so far, the Mbale-based side will hope for a miracle when they travel to 6th-placed BUL on Sunday.
Meanwhile, at the Bombo Military Grounds, UPDF and Kitara played out a goalless draw in an intense contest.
Kitara’s goalkeeper Chrispus Kusiima was kept busy in the first half, pulling off crucial saves, including a spectacular tip-over to deny Bashir Kabuye’s volley.
The second half saw Kitara take control, but UPDF’s defense held firm. Goalkeeper Richard Anyama stepped up with key interventions to ensure the spoils were shared.
The stalemate marked the first draw between the two sides in six meetings, with Kitara maintaining a clean sheet against UPDF in their last four encounters.
UPDF now sit 12th with 18 points from 16 games, while Kitara remain eighth on 22 points.
Both teams return to action on Monday, with UPDF traveling to face Mbarara City at Kakyeka Stadium, while Kitara will host Soltilo Bright Stars at Royal Park Butema.
