URA FC head coach Hussein Mbalangu says they have picked valuable lessons from Mapinduzi Cup despite early elimination.
The Tax Collectors lost 2-1 to Azam FC on Monday in their last group game to finish third with four points.
Nelson Ssenkatuka scored the goal in the 10th minute before URA let their lead, and knockout chances, slip.
“The game has been good, we dominated almost 80% but in the end we lacked concentration,” said Mbalangu who recently replaced Alex Isabirye at the helm.
“We conceded in the first half because of some loose markings in defence, and in the second half, we tried to push for the second goal and got several chances which the boys failed to convert. Then their got their chance off a counter which they scored in added time.”
URA opened the campaign with a 2-1 win over Mlandege FC before drawing 1-1 with Singida Black Stars in a tournament ongoing in Zanzibar.
He added: “The boys put up a good fight, it was a good performance though not the end result we wanted. I am confident that what we are trying to build will soon come to fruition.”
On the valuable lessons, he commented: “The boys have learnt that it’s all about work. The one who works harder will take the result. That is modern day football now.”
“This has been my first week at the club, and I am glad that what I have been emphasing to the boys, they have seen it themselves.
“The teams which we failed to beat – Singida and Azam – are very physical opponents, and we have to adjust accordingly going forward.”
Mbalangu stated that they will try to implement all those lessons when they return home ahead of their league match against Entebbe UPPC this Sunday at Nakivubo.