Uganda: Defensive Puzzle for Bobby

James Ssekandi

23 June 2011

Coach Bobby Williamson and his back room staff must solve a defensive dilemma if Uganda’s under 23 side, Kobs, are to overcome Kenya in the All Africa Games qualifiers on Sunday.

Without the first choice central defence pairing of Ivan Bukenya (now with Spanish side San Roque Lepe) and Ethiopian-based Isaac Isinde (injured), Williamson must find options within the next few days.

Assistant coach George Ssimwogerere has said there are several suitors in Denis Guma (SC Villa), Sam Ssenkomi (URA) and Maroons Slyvester Okello.

The Bunnamwaya pair of Ronnie Seku and Ayub Kisalita also comes into the picture. “If we don’t perform on Sunday it won’t be because Isinde and Bukenya are not there,” Ssimwogerere told the media in Kavumba, Wakiso yesterday. “A good team cannot allow itself to depend on players who are absent.”

Emma Okwi (Simba, Tanzania) gave a much needed boost by joining the team yesterday to cover up for the absent league top scorer Hamis Kiiza. The URA striker is seeking a move abroad.

Midfielders Saddam Juma and Moses Oloya were expected to jet in from Vietnam last night. To get within 180 minutes of qualifying for the continental showpiece, Uganda beat Tanzania’s Manyara Stars 5-2 on aggregate.

AllAfrica – All the Time