By James Bakama

Nations Championship
March 14
Uganda v Burundi

BALL possession will be key in coach Bobby Williamson’s drills when the Cranes return to camp tomorrow for their Africa Nations Championship return leg with Burundi.

“We have to keep possession and create as many chances as possible,” said Williamson shortly after the team’s return from Bujumbura.

The tactician’s plans follows a scary second half during the first leg where the Cranes were only saved from defeat by a careless Burundi striking line.

“We’ll have to be in charge if we are to advance,” noted Williamson. He however conceded that the Cranes were also undermined by an unfamiliar astro-turf surface and very humid conditions.

Team manager Crispus Muyinda noted that the effects of the unusual conditions were vivid after 30 minutes of play. “The boys were very impressive in the opening minutes only to tire out.”

The Cranes nevertheless made the best of their period of dominance with Uganda Super League top scorer Henry Kisekka giving the visitors the lead.

The African Nations Championship or CHAN, is a tournament introduced in 2007 for home-based players of the respective national sides. The first event was held in 2009 in Ivory Coast and was won by the DR Congo.

The Cranes beat Eritrea 5-2 on aggregate before being stopped by Tanzania.