The Royals needed victory to ascend to second past Vipers SC, but they couldn't find their way through against the resilient Ankole Lions.
Kitara FC were held to a barren stalemate by fellow newbies Mbarara City FC in the Uganda Premier League at Kakyeka Stadium on Wednesday.
The Royals needed victory to ascend to second past Vipers SC, but they couldn't find their way through against the resilient Ankole Lions.
With the result, Kitara stayed third on the log with 23 points, three adrift of leaders BUL FC, who play Vipers on Friday at the St Mary's Stadium, Kitende.
14:31 - 20.12.2023
Alex Isabirye calls for more time to turn Express' season around
While he has yet to pick a first victory with the seven-time Uganda Premier League champions, Isabirye is a serial winner who just last season clinched a domestic double with Vipers SC.
On the evening, they started brightly and nearly snatched a goal after five minutes, but Dudu Ramadhan flashed wide a headed effort after a superb Paul Mucureezi corner.
Living Kabon, who was dangerous all evening, then fizzled a shot inches wide to the relief of the Mbarara City faithful.
It should have been a goal for the guests after 30 minutes, but Jasper Aheebwa was unlucky as his header crashed against the woodwork.
Kitara kept on surging and nearly wrapped the half with a goal but goalkeeper Hakimu Nsamba brilliantly kept Mucureezi's stinging header out.
10:53 - 20.12.2023
FOOTBALL Cissy Nantongo: She Corporate star breaking barriers, opens own brand - CN18
The one-time FUFA Women's Super League champion intends to spread to her audience and the wider football fanbase with a touch of the CN18 marque.
The visitors did not tire with rounds of attacking action, but Mbarara dug deep to earn an important point at home.
Following the result, Kitara will round off the year with a home bout to strugglers Arua Hill SC at the Masindi Playgrounds on December 28.
Meanwhile, a day later, Mbarara, who have moved ninth with 13 points will be away to URA FC.