Danito NSUBUGA
The encounter between KCCA FC and URA FC lived to the prematch billing as one of the most entertaining fixtures of the Uganda Premier league.
It was a deserving kick off ceremony for the league as teams played end to end attacking football.
Although KCCA FC took the evening, URA must have left with their heads held high after getting close to finding an equaliser on more than three occasions.
Here are five points we thought are noteworthy to highlight from that encounter.
Joshua Lubwama Leti is not a good header of the ball
URA FC struggled with aerial balls everytime the KCCA FC wingers crossed it into their box.
Despite his big stature in size and height, Lubwama was bullied by a diminutive Nsibambi all evening and even when Isabirye intensified the search for an equaliser, he sent Lubwama to the forward line but still couldn’t beat Hassan Muhamood and Mustafa Mujuzi in any aerial battles.
Derrick Nsibambi will be as important as any other player for KCCA FC
The 13 time league champions lost top scorer Mohammed Shaban and many thought Nsibambi isn’t the best replacement but he played like a man on a mission to prove a point.
His general involvement in the game especially the hold up play was superb.
He has added a few key attributes to his game and surely the goals will come.
Nsibambi’s experience having played overseas in Oman, Egypt and Kenya at Bandari FC will be a priceless ingredient for KCCA’s young forward line.
Don’t be surprised if he plays his way back into contention for a return to the Cranes.
Alex Isabirye is yet to establish his first eleven
It may be too early to point this out but the URA FC tactician has spent enough time with his team to know what will be his strongest side early enough.
The sight of him making wholesale changes after an hour played showed that he wasn’t as impressed with some of his initial choices.
Mutwalibu Mugolofa made a strong claim to be number one for KCCA FC
Anthony Emojong may have to face a big battle to reclaim his place as first choice goal keeper for KCCA FC following the display exhibited by Mugolofa.
He made a series of point blank saves and his command in the goal areas created a sense of safety in the department.
KCCA made a bold statement for title contention
Abdallah Mubiru won more points than any other coach in the league last season during his time in charge after taking over from interim coach Jackson Magera.
His team played with immense freedom on the ball, pressed well while not in possession and also showed the willingness to change tactics to win ugly especially while in lead.
The signing of defender Hassan Muhamood appeared to have created organisation in defense and he will be a mainstay.
They just can’t wait for the return to full fitness of Arafat Usama.
