When Onduparaka was handed back to the community and a new executive installed, optimism swept through Arua.
Many hoped the club that once captured national attention would reclaim its former glory but things look misty as the club has attained only seven points in seven fixtures of the 2025/26 Fufa Big League season, the Caterpillars have amassed a paltry seven points.
Things turned for the worst over the weekend as they made a 1,088-kilometre return trip to Kasese to face newcomers Bunyagururu.
Upon arrival, Onduparaka realized they had travelled with only one playing kit one that clashed in colour with the home side’s strip.
According to competition regulations, ‘If in the opinion of the referee, the sets of both teams are similar in colours or clash, the visiting team shall change to their registered home sets or any other set that removes the clash.’
Without an alternative kit or access to a makeshift solution, Onduparaka were unable to fulfil the fixture, handing Bunyagururu a walkover.
‘Onduparaka regrets to inform the public that our 7th league fixture . was not played due to unforeseen circumstances,’ the club said in a statement. The incident could now cost them an additional three points and three goals depending on the Fufa Competitions Panel’s ruling.
The new club leadership under Ceaser Buti Galdino hopes to rise and steady the ship back to course.
‘Onduparaka remains steadfast in our values of professionalism, sportsmanship, and unity. We strongly believe that with your continued support we shall rise above today’s experience and continue to raise the flag even higher.’
The Caterpillars will hope to put the episode behind them this afternoon when they host Kiyinda Boys at Greenlight Stadium.
Wakiso, Blacks power on
Elsewhere, Nebbi Central welcome Kigezi Homeboyz at Luo Grounds.
The 2023 champions Blacks Power maintained their push for a topflight return with a hard-earned point away to Kataka that keeps them on top with 15 points, one ahead of Wakiso Giants who edged Paidha Black Angels 1-0 courtesy of a Pius Wanji strike in Nakivubo.
In Mityana, Ntugasaze piled more misery on Mbale Heroes with a 3-0 thrashing to climb into the top three with 10 points, while Soltilo Bright Stars were held to a goalless draw at their new home in Luzira.
FUFA BIG LEAGUE
Results
Soltilo Bright Stars 0-0 Kigezi Homeboyz
Catda 1-0 Iganga United
Bunyaruguru United vs. Onduparaka (not played)
Kataka 1-1 Blacks Power
Kaaro Karungi 1-1 Nebbi Central
Ntugasaze 3-0 Mbale Heroes
Wakiso Giants 1-0 Paidha Black Angels
Kiyinda Boys 2-1 Young Elephant
Thursday fixtures – 4pm
Onduparaka vs.Kiyinda Boys – Arua
Nebbi Central vs. Kigezi Homeboyz – Nebbi