Tension

May 22, 2006

IBRAHIM Kirya arrived in Dar es Salaam yesterday from Morogoro with a warning: “Ulinzi isn’t a big threat to us.”

By Godfrey Kireewa
in Dar es Salaam

Quarter-finals
Today
Yanga v Police
Villa v Ulinzi
Tomorrow
Moro v Simba
APR v St. George

IBRAHIM Kirya arrived in Dar es Salaam yesterday from Morogoro with a warning: “Ulinzi isn’t a big threat to us.”

The SC Villa tactician is confident the side will defend their title, and said he regards Kenyan side Ulinzi as a stepping stone.

“All my players are okay and ready to battle the Kenyans,” Kirya said.

A victory will not only keep the Jogoos on track to retain their title, but also book them a likely semi-final clash with Ugandan rivals Police, who take on Yanga in the other quarter-final.

Stephen Nsereko and Robert Ssentongo are expected to lead Villa’s search for goals, while Dan Wagaluka and Jeremiah Ssebuyira will man the midfield.

Police coach Sam Timbe, who moved from Villa early this year, was equally confident. “We should win. We have patched up our mistakes in defence and our last touch before we get to the net,” he said.

Police manager Asan Kasingye paid the players an allowance of $160 each which he promised if they go past the the first stage of the tournament. He promised sh1m to each player if they come back with the trophy and sh0.5m if they win their semi-final later.

The team has experienced goalkeeper Hannington Kalyesubula and reliable defender Simeon Masaba as pillars.

The other quarter-final between APR and St.George will be a battle of Ugandan players abroad.

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