Kitara began their FUFA Super 8 campaign in style, putting four goals past Police FC on Sunday evening at Hamz Nakivubo Stadium.
New signing Jeromy Kirya had the first sight of goal in the ninth minute but his low effort lacked the power to beat Police goalkeeper Sammon Oloka.
Police almost broke the deadlock moments later when Richard Matovu’s dangerous cross found its way to Ramsey Jjemba, only for Meddie Kibirige to intervene at the right time.
Kitara grew into the game and took the lead in the 26th minute when Kabon Living pounced on a mistake by Oloka, who failed to deal with a long ball from Frank Zaga Tumwesigye, and slotted into an empty net. Patrick Kaddu then doubled the lead with a delightful lob over the stranded Oloka, sending the Royals into the break firmly in control.
Coach Wasswa Bbosa freshened up his side after the restart, introducing Missi Ssemugera, Hussein Ssenoga and Alex Wasswa for Tumwesigye, Nicholas Kasozi and Kirya. The changes paid off as Kaddu turned provider, teeing up Wasswa for Kitara’s third before Jimmy Kalema added a fourth ahead of his own substitution.
Police were handed a lifeline when referee George Olem awarded a penalty for a foul by Benjamin Nyakoojo, but Kibirige denied Bedia Ikamba from the spot to preserve his clean sheet and seal a commanding first-leg win.
The two sides meet again next week at Hamz Nakivubo Stadium, with a semi final spot on the line.
