URA set for UPL kick-off

By Shafik Ssenoga

Uganda Premier League (Today, 4pm)

BUL FC v Sadolin Paints (Kakindu, Jinja)

Express FC v Kira Young FC (Wankulukuku)

URA FC v Bright Stars FC (Lugazi)

Police FC v Rwenshama (Kavumba)

SC Villa v Soana FC (Mityana)

URA coach Alex Isabirye believes his side is ready for the Uganda Premier League (UPL) that gets underway today.

URA, who finished third last season, will kick-start their season against Bright Stars at the Mehta Stadium in Lugazi.

“My team is well set. I have no injuries and I have tested all my players through the friendlies we have played,” said Isabirye.

“Bright Stars is not an easy side but losing at home won’t be possible,’’ he added.

Isabirye, a former URA FC player and head coach, returned to the tax-collectors on a two-year performance based contract following his resignation a season ago. He quit amidst reported internal disagreements with some players.

He replaced Uganda Cup winning coach Paul Nkata, who was dismissed together with team physiotherapist Jack Walugembe.

KCCA FC, who won the league title last season, will launch their title defence against Police on Tuesday.

The Lugogo-based club has strengthened with the arrivals of Brian Umony, Owen Kasule, Paul Muchulezi, Rogers Lukwiya, Richard Kasagga, Yasin Mugabi and Martin Elungati.

Lweza, Sadolin Paints FC and Rwenshama are the Uganda Premier League debutantes that replaced relegated outfits Masaka, CRO and Proline.

In the other games of the day, BUL will host newly promoted Sadolin in what should be an exciting Jinja derby at Kakindu Stadium. Express will take on Kira Young at Wankulukuku while SC Villa take on Soana in Mityana.