Relegation fight goes to wire

Proline striker Daniel Isiagi reacts after full time at StarTimes Stadium at Lugogo yesterday. His team played a 0-0 draw with Villa. Photo by Eddie Chicco

Kampala- The three teams to be relegated at the end of this season’s Azam Uganda Premier League (AUPL) will be decided on the final day after Proline could only manage goalless draw at home to SC Villa yesterday.

The result at the Startimes Stadium means Mujib Kasule’s side remain one point from safety with UPDF just above them on 29 points with one game left to play.

Proline are however now level on 28 points with Express who occupy the final relegation spot but who travel to Kitende to play title-chasing Vipers before winding up against bottom side Masavu on Friday.
It will however be scant consolation for Proline who must now beat URA in their final game on Friday but hope other results go their way.

Like has been the case over the better part of the season, their inability to pick maximum points stemmed from a combination of poor finishing and good goalkeeping from the opposition goalkeeper. Forward Daniel Isiagi has been one of their few bright lights this season scoring eight goals and almost conjured up a spectacular overhead scissor-kick that rattled the bar. SC Villa goalkeeper Samson Kirya was also called up to make two blocks from a freekick and from another Isiagi drive while Joseph Mandela failed to make contact with a Saka Mpiima cross late on.

The result meanwhile also officially ended SC Villa’s hopes of ending a 14 year league drought as they stay third with 55 points with one game left.

The tally is five points behind leaders Vipers who have two games left starting with today’s game against Express.
Striker Alex Kitatta got their best chance failing to lob goalkeeper Saidi Keni when through on goal while the team at times seemed more content with a point with focus on Sunday’s Uganda Cup semifinal first leg.

Final day matches
Soana vs. Maroons FC
Masavu vs. Express
Proline vs. URA
Police vs. KCC
Vipers vs. UPDF