*By John Kusolo*
Kitara FC will host BUL FC in a critical Startimes Uganda Premier League (SUPL) encounter this Friday, October 25, 2024, at 4 PM at the Royals Park Stadium in Butema. As both teams aim to turn around their seasons, this lower-half clash finds them neck-and-neck in the standings, with just a one-point difference separating BUL’s five points from Kitara’s four.
The current season has been challenging for both Kitara and BUL, with just one win from five opening games, leaving fans disappointed. Kitara recently broke a three-match losing streak with a 1-1 draw against the Ankole Lions, a result that hinted at potential improvement. Head Coach Brian Ssenyondo expressed optimism, saying, "We were happy with the positive attitude and character shown in the one-all draw with Mbarara City last week. The fight was good, and we want to build on that performance tomorrow when we host BUL."
BUL FC, coached by Abby Kikomeko, is also looking to capitalize on their recent success after edging out URA 1-0 last week. This victory, their first of the season, provided a much-needed boost and highlighted their determination to climb the table. BUL’s DLW (Draw-Loss-Win) record in their last three games reflects a mixed bag, and this clash presents an opportunity to establish some consistency.
*Head-to-Head:* Kitara's Struggle to Conquer BUL
Historically, Kitara has yet to secure a win over BUL, and Friday’s game will mark their fifth league meeting:
March 13, 2021: BUL 3-2 Kitara (Kyabazinga Stadium)
May 12, 2021: Kitara 2-2 BUL (Masindi Stadium)
November 26, 2022: BUL 2-1 Kitara (Njeru Technical Center)
March 29, 2024: Kitara 0-0 BUL (Masindi Stadium)
The last meeting between these two teams ended in a goalless draw, a stalemate that Kitara now hopes to break in their favor. Playing at Royals Park Stadium, Kitara believes they have the home-ground advantage and a real chance to claim their first win over BUL, setting a positive tone as they prepare for next week’s challenging away fixture against URA FC.
Despite having the home advantage, Kitara’s track record at Royals Park has been less than ideal, with recent losses to NEC (1-2) and Police FC (0-1). Yet, their resilient performance against Mbarara City shows that they are learning from past setbacks. For BUL, their away form has been mixed, featuring a goalless draw against Police FC, a narrow 2-1 loss to SC Villa, and last week’s critical 1-0 victory over URA.
Kitara FC will rely on their core lineup to replicate the fighting spirit demonstrated in their draw with Mbarara City. Meanwhile, BUL will look to maintain momentum from their win over URA, with Kikomeko likely to leverage his squad’s attacking potential to challenge Kitara’s defense.
This encounter is crucial for both sides as they aim to climb out of the lower half of the table and establish more secure footing. A win for Kitara would not only be their first against BUL but would also lift them up in the standings and provide a morale boost before their away game against URA. For BUL, continuing their winning ways could mark the beginning of a consistent run and help them make their way up the table.
The clash between Kitara and BUL promises to be an intense contest, with both teams having a lot at stake. Fans can expect a spirited display of determination and, hopefully, a turning point for both sides in what has been a turbulent start to the SUPL season.
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