WANTED: A Marksman

May 21, 2003

UGANDA Cranes evoked memories of the painful 0-0 draw in Rwanda with an unlucky stalemate against Sudan yesterday.

By Mark Namanya
Uganda 0 Sudan 0
UGANDA Cranes evoked memories of the painful 0-0 draw in Rwanda with an unlucky stalemate against Sudan yesterday.
But considering just the two days Argentine coach Pablo Pasculli has been in charge, Cranes’ overall display at Nakivubo showed signs of better things to come.
Cranes has now failed to score in three of its last four matches, meaning Pasculli must rectify the striking problem in a fortnight before Rwanda visits.
Like in Kigali, several chances were created but fans waited in vain for a goal.
The final third of the pitch had a lot of activity, with Hakim Magumba dazzling Sudan defenders and threading in dangerous balls. So was Philip Ssozi, a constant threat on the right wing.
Even Philip Obwiny, back from injury, troubled the visitors when he ventured forward.
Ten minutes of intense second half pressure at the Sudan goal could have yielded four goals. Cranes got none.
Substitutes Alex Isabirye and Assan Bajope, on for Hassan Mubiru and Fred Okello, struck an instant chord that should have won the match. Twice Bajope fed Isabirye with neat balls but the Villa striker failed to utilise the great opportunities.
Bajope was guilty of blazing over a low cross from David Obua. Shortly after, Noah Kasule ‘Babadi’ forced a reflex save from Sudan keeper Maki.
Fans had longed for Bana Zidane’s debut and such is the class of the Express libero that he lived to expectations.
On this performance, Zidane could be a permanent fixture in Cranes. He simply did what he does best. Picking out team-mates with awesome vision, anticipating his tackles and adding numbers in midfield.
“We were trying to win but this is the first time. May be in the second game, we will be able to adjust,” Pasculli said.
“It’s difficult to get instant results after two days. I’m not Jesus.”
Starting line ups.
Uganda
Mugisha, Obwiny, Makanga, S.Mubiru,Zidane, Kaweesa (Kasule), Ssozi, Magumba, Okello (Bajope), Mubiru (Isabirye), Obua (Tabula).
Sudan
Maki, Ashiraf, Justin, Basha, Bastawy, Khamis, Jundu, Galaj, Alwan, Kamal, Khabier.
Ends

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