Senkatuka rallies Bright Stars ahead of Cup semis return leg
Express forward Michael Birungi (R) in a tango with Bright Stars’ Sam Sekito during the first leg that ended 1-1. PHOTO BY JOHN BATANUDDE
Kampala- The five goals he plundered against Paidha Black Angels for Bright Stars in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League 6-1 victory have indeed added a layer of self belief onto striker Nelson Senkatuka.
Ahead of their Uganda Cup semifinal second leg tie with 10-time winners Express, Senkatuka, also propped up by the Uganda Cranes summon for the Cosafa tourney later this month, believes that the goal taps will open at Wankulukuku Stadium this afternoon.
“We are raring to go. This is the furthest Bright Stars has ever been so we are working hard to go one step better and reach the final,” revealed the Bright Stars skipper who tallied 16 goals in the league.
Express threat
He acknowledges the challenge that George Ssimwogerere’s Express that trounced them 3-1 in the league at Wankulukuku less than a fortnight ago brings on table but remains optimistic that they can make it to the finals at Masaka Recreation Grounds on June 1.
“Every game is different. Hopefully the goals will rain in again on Thursday (today).”
Senkatuka equalised for Bright Stars at Mwererwe just when Michael Birungi had given the Red Eagles the lead.
In trying to halt Express’ 11th trophy hunt, Senkatuka will also be seeking to fulfil his preseason goal target.
“It is always an honour to get a national team call up. My target was to score more goals than I managed last season (15) which I did achieve.
Goal-hungry
But, I would have loved to reach the 20-goal mark as well,” he added. Bright Stars coach Fred Kajoba won the Uganda Cup with Simba back in 2011, a feat he would cherish to taste again if he can overcome the Express hurdle. Ssimwogerere is equally ready for the test; “I have already sampled them in the league. They will be coming with fear after what happened in the league, and we will capitalise on that to reach the finals.
