UNDER sweltering temperatures at Namboole Stadiium yesterday, the Cranes embarked on a rigorous training regime that was not only geared to eliminating extra fat but also improving fitness levels ahead of next weekend’s potential qualifier.

Like kids back to school from holiday, a majority of the largely local-based players that reported for the first session spent the earlier part of the day reaching out to each other before undergoing drills under the watchful eyes of Cranes coach Bobby Williamson. “I was pleased with the turn up and very happy with the fitness levels of all the guys that attended. You could see that these guys want to do well and are really working hard,” Williamson stated.

Vietnam-based midfielder Moses Oloya was the only foreign-based star present in a side that took part in a session that looked at fitness, dribbling and movement within restricted areas.

Contrary to the build-up to the qualifier against Angola last month, where fitness was a major concern, Williamson will be pleased this time that a majority of his foreign-based players have had serious match practice at their respective clubs.

Apart from Cranes goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who has not been involved in a competitive game with South African side Mamelodi Sundowns, the rest of the players have had decent run-outs.

In fact, Tony Mawejje struck a wonder goal although his IBV side collapsed to a 4-2 defeat to FH in the Iceland Premiership.