UCU 1-1 KUMI
By Michael Ainomugisha
Uganda Christian University (UCU) Cardinals were held to a 1–1 draw by Kumi University in a closely contested University Football League (UFL) match played at the UCU Grounds on Tuesday, October 28.
The hosts started brightly, dominating early exchanges and creating several chances. Their pressure paid off in the 18th minute when Harry Abiti fired home a thunderous right-footed strike from inside the box after a fine cross from Najib Alawi.
Kumi goalkeeper Amoni Eddie failed to keep out the shot, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
However, UCU’s lead lasted just eight minutes. Kumi’s Muthir Saidi equalised with a perfectly curled free kick that beat goalkeeper Norman Rukari, levelling the game at 1–1.
In the second half, UCU continued to press for a winner. Peter Kyomuhendo’s long-range strike rattled the woodwork, while Abiti and Reagan Ssekisambu both came close on several attempts but could not convert their chances as the visitors held firm to secure a valuable away point.
Reflecting on the result, team captain Patrick Ogola expressed disappointment but maintained faith in the team’s progress.
“Luck wasn’t on our side today. We created the chances but couldn’t take them. As the UCU Cardinals, we accept the result and focus on the next round. We had hoped to finish the first half of the season with six points, but we’ll build from here,” he said.
Assistant coach Ronald Komakech highlighted steady improvement over recent fixtures.
“We lost our first game 1–0, won the second 6–1 away, and now drew 1–1. That shows progress. Come next year, we’ll evaluate and make corrections to ensure we qualify from the group stages,” Komakech noted.
The result leaves Kumi University top of Group E with five points from three matches, while UCU sits second on four points. With two group games remaining against Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) and Makerere University, the Cardinals’ qualification hopes remain alive but finely balanced.
