When the final blew at MTN-Omondi Stadium on Tuesday evening, the most relieved person was Brian Ssenyondo, the KCCA head coach. That how much the win meant for the tactician who has been under immense pressure following the team’s sloppy start to the season. Immediately after the final whistle, he shook hands with the opposite bench and then headed to the dressing room.
The performance was not the best but at least, the monkey of registering the first goal, first win of the season was off the back.
Emmanuel Anyama’s solitary strike in the second half was difference as KCCA labored to overcome new comers Kataka.
The result came with so many chsnges in the playing unit, with six players changing from the team that drawn goalless against Mbarara City last week.
Hassan Muhamud replaced Maxwell Owachigui, James Mubezi started ahead of captain Herbert Achayi, Elvis Ngonde came in place of Saidi Mayanja, Emmanuel Anyama replaced Charles Lwanga, Ibrahim Kasule who was coming from a compassionate leave made his first start in place of Ashiraf Mugume while Lazaro Muhindo returned at right back position ahead Ismael Fahad.
There was not much difference in display for both teams, with none having control in terms of possession.
Kataka will rue the chances they got in the first half, especially striker Ali Ssentamu who had two great opportunities, including a back pass from Etienne Katenga but he failed to find the target on both occasions.
On the other hand, KCCA got close to scoring through Sammy Ssebaduka and also had another effort glance off the crossbar.
In the second half, the hosts improved and gained some control especially in the midfield as Kataka showed signs of tiredness.
The decisive moment arrived in the 57th minute when Anyama dashed at the first post and connected well to a low cross from Ssebaduka from the right.
KCCA eventually held on to claim all three points and register their first win of the season.
The two teams will hope to benefit from the long international break that will stretch to almost three weeks. Upon resumption of the League in October, KCCA will visit URA while Kataka will be at home to SC Villa.
