Lady Cranes to host Kenyans in return match

Lady Cranes 15’s coach, Henry Musoke, has the unenviable task of rebuilding the Lady Cranes 15’s squad and at the same retaining the Elgon Cup. The retirement and unavailability of half of the regular starting players meant that Musoke had to throw 7 uncapped players and several fringe players into the deep end in the game against Kenya 2 weeks ago. Led by their new captain, Prossy Nakakande, the Lady Cranes spectacularly collapsed against a well drilled and experienced Kenyan side. Although the Ugandans showed occasional flashes of brilliance, the Kenyans used their strong pack effectively to provide their backs with good ball and wipe out any resistance from the Ugandans: the result was a 38 – 05 drubbing.

Two weeks on Musoke will probably use the same squad against the Kenyans and hope for better results. Musoke will have to do without the services of Dorothy Nekesa as she was injured in the first leg and has not recovered in time for the return leg. However, it is likely that the squad will be boosted by the presence of Charlotte Mudoola who missed the first leg as she was sitting exams. After their baptism of fire, Musoke will hope that the new players will have settled into the team and will thrive under the steadying influence of seasoned players such as Mudoola, Christine Kizito and Helen Buteme. Ugandan fans have come to expect nothing short of victory at home and Musoke and his charges will have to do all that they can to deliver. The Kenyans arrive today with a largely unchanged squad - Esther Njue steps in for Florence Awuor.

Kenyan squad:

Forwards

Camilyne Awour, Mary Otieno, Rebecca Kerubo, Angela Olum, Rachael Adhiambo, Aberdeen Shikhoyi, Stacy Awour, Irene Nyakundi, Ester Njue, Adelaide Nasambu, Kezia Adhiambo.

Backs

Mary Musieka, Doreen Remour, Rubina Wambui, Judy Agengo, Celestine Navalayo (Captain), Philadelphia Olando, Irene Awino, Anita Omondi, Dorcas Ocholi, Millicent Opalla, Janet Midecha.

Officials: Sammy Kemmey (Coach), Pritt Nyandatt (Assistant Coach) Yvonne Makwali (Team Manager), Gerald Omondi (Physiotherapist).

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