Express FC started their CECAFA Kagame Cup campaign with a 1-0 win over Atlabara FC on Monday.
Eric Kambale scored in the fifth minute from the spot but the Red Eagles saw Abel Eturude sent off for a reckless challenge in the second half.
Here is how the Express players ranked in the narrow win over the South Sudanese side.
Ratings given on a scale of 1-10.
Joel Mutakubwa – Atlabara did not hand him wealth of work to deal with. His first test came in the 71st minute but pulled a one-hand save to show the class that forced Express FC give him contract without a second thought. He Kept a clean sheet on his debut and that is all what matters. 6/10
Enock Walusimbi – He had tired legs after that recent stint with Uganda Kobs in CECAFA U23 but managed to make some blocks at the back and threw in a couple of crosses forward. 5/10
Arthur Kiggundu: Did not have much to do at the back and enjoyed some good time while driving from defence to the opponents half. Saw his beautiful cross tapped over by Lwesibawa at the stroke of halftime. 6/10
Issa Lumu: Solid as usual as he did the dirty work where necessary. Dealt with anything they did threw at him with energy. 6/10
Murushid Juuko: A calm figure, tidy the back and communicated well with his backline. He had some nervy moments especially against a pacy Simon Obligi. 5/10
Abel Eturude: Looked Solid and was never porous but his high kick that saw him sent off in the second half was unnecessary. 3/10
Mahad Yaya: Played as the team’s conductor and directed flow. Never did he put a foot wrong as he made sure Express retained possession especially after they went man down. 8/10
Charles Musiige: Put up a disjointed performance on the day despite seeing much of the ball. Was not firm and struggled to free himself when marked. Has to do better if he is to successfully fight for good minutes. Not the best of games. Taken off for Ivan Mayanja later on. 4/10
Godfrey Lwesibawa: He lighted up the right flank and was in the right places at the right time. He could have scored a couple but was betrayed by his poor finishing on the day. Could have scored at least one when he was put through twice. 5/10
Martin Kizza: Was a threat the whole contest. Played with energy and athleticism. He had two penalty claims turned down – tripped in the box and later saw his effort blocked by a defender’s arm. Replaced by John Byamukama. 6/10
Eric Kambale: The team’s brain. He was the architect and everything going forward went through him. Very decent with the ball and scored the whole important goal. His ankles must be hurting after going through a couple of challenges. 8/10
Substitutes:
Joseph Akandwanaho: Played with energy when he came on to replace Lwesibawa in the 65th minute for his debut. He raced behind the defence but failed to bring out something of note. N/A
Ivan Mayanja: Came on for Charles Musiige in the 52nd minute. Used the right flank and tried to drive the ball to dangerous areas. N/A
John Byamukama: Came in a time difficult time when his side was a man down. Shoot poorly over the bar with plenty of options up front. Chased the ball as his side was worked in the closing stages. N/A
