Odoch troubled by Nyamityobora’s defensive frailties ahead of URA visit
Kampala. Nyamityobora’s leaky defence has been singled out as their Achilles heel as they try to adapt to the murky waters of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
Clean sheets are the key to any team with lofty ambitions but James Odoch’s team have conceded in every game they have played in the maiden season - nine goals in five matches.
“It is disturbing to note that we haven’t kept a clean sheet but I have tried to address that before we play URA tomorrow (Friday),” Odoch told Daily Monitor yesterday.
Cameroonian defender Calvin Bana returns after a two-match injury layoff to join Jerry Jakisa, Ibrahim Pengere and skipper Alex Komakech in defence.
Nyamityobora’s sole joy came in the 2-1 triumph over Mbarara City in the ‘Mbarara derby’ and Odoch is quick to note other challenging factors.
Inside knowledge of opponent
“Lacking a home ground has cost us a lot yet we have a team of young players who need to be morale boosted. Hosting at Wankulukuku is like playing away.”
Having coached at URA, Odoch believes he knows them ‘inside out’ and promises to exploit their ‘weaknesses’ to get a second win.
“Their coach (Sam Ssimbwa) is experienced but too defensive. We are going to try and open up for an early goal which will frustrate him,” Odoch revealed.
Three-time winners URA have posted mixed results lately with the a goalless draw with SC Villa suggesting Ssimbwa needs to go back to the drawing board.
Fifth-placed URA have scored only four goals and conceded once with Ssimbwa left in hope that strikers Mathew Odong and Peter Lwasa can rediscover their scoring boots against Nyamityobora this afternoon at Namboole.
Tomorrow will be a full round of action with the pick of the matches being the showdown between champions Vipers and last years runner-ups KCCA.
Today
URA vs Nyamityobora
Mandela National Stadium, Namboole
Tomorrow’s matches
Vipers SC vs KCCA
Paidha Black Angels vs Express
Bul vs Ndejje University
Mbarara City vs SC Villa
Bright Stars vs Kirinya Jinja
Tooro United vs Onduparaka
Sunday
Police vs Maroons
