Eastern region displays Cranes affection

KAMPALA. Two years after it was launched, the idea of taking the Cranes team closer to upcountry fans still seems to reap continuous rewards for all stakeholders involved.
Initially dubbed “Cranes na mutima” the Nile Special and Airtel sponsored Cranes regional tours as evidenced on Saturday are best suited in the off-season.
First, there was no disruption to league games as has previously been in the past with the majority of players summoned featuring in the domestic league.

For coach Micho Sredojevic and the fans however, this was the first time after six regional tours he was able to utilize the services of five regulars from the senior Cranes team
Murushid Jjuuko, Dennis Guma, Joseph Ochaya and Hassan Wasswa and Yassar Mugerwa were all on show. The fans too did not disappoint by braving the afternoon downpour to fill the now dilapidated Mbale Municipal Stadium.

On the pitch, there was even more to celebrate as the home team comprising of players from Busia, Mbale, Jinja and surrounding areas held their own against their more established opponents.
Mark Bamukyaaye shone brightest for the Eastern Region select side with the Kirinya-Jinja diminutive midfielder instigating several attacks in his second half cameo.
One of those resulted in his team’s equalizing goal as he crossed for clubmate James Otim to head home.
They trailed for large parts of the game after Isaac Muleme had given Cranes an early first half lead with a goal straight from a corner.