Adera’s goal sinks the Crested Cranes of Uganda

Lillian Adera’s 52nd-minute goal secured Harambee Starlets a narrow 1-0 win over Uganda’s Crested Cranes on Wednesday afternoon at the Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos in a 2019 African Women Cup of Nations qualifier.

Adera fired into the net a cross from Mwanalima Adam leaving Uganda keeper Ruth Aturo stranded between the sticks.

Kenya Started strongly and had a chance to score in the 10th minute when Neddy Atieno fed Mwanalima Adam who shot off target.

From then on Uganda kept pressing and in the 25th minute, Grace Aluka found herself unmarked with only keeper Poline Atieno to beat but the custodian denied her by punching the ball outside.

Thereafter Kenya created a chance in the 30th minute with Neddy Atieno involved again, delivering a cross which Esse Mbeyu shot wide.

After the break, coach David Ouma made changes bringing in Corazone Acquino for Cynthia Shilwatso who coordinate well with Neddy. Sheryle Angachi and Mercy Achieng were also introduced in the second half taking the place of Cheris Avilia

The Starlets then launched a deadly counter-attack in the 52nd minute with Adera completing the move when her shot proved too much for Uganda keeper Ruth Aturo, giving Kenya the lead.

Starlets travel to Kampala for the return leg match slated for this Sunday at the Lugogo Stadium with the aggregate winner proceeding to the next stage of the qualifier.

Harambee Starlets starting XI

Poline Atieno (GK), Wendy Achieng, Dorcas Sikobe, Carolyne Anyango, Elizabeth Ambogo, Cheris Avilia, Mwanahalima Adam, Lilian Adera, Neddy Atieno, Esse Akida, Cynthia Shilwatso

Substitutes

Maureen Shimuli (GK), Dorris Anyango, Pauline Musungu, Sheryll Angachi, Corazone Aquino, Mercy Achieng, Phoebe Owiti

Uganda Crested Cranes Starting XI

Ruth Aturo (GK), Viola Namuddu, Grace Aluka, Shadia Nankya, Yudaya Nakayenze, Tracy Akiror, Asia Nakibuuka, Shakira Mutibwa, Juliet Nalukenge, Hasifah Nassuna, Zainah Namuleme

Substitutes

Daisy Nakaziro, Christine Nambirige, Gladys Nakito, Spencer Nakachwa, Damali Matama, Winnie Babirye, Shamir’s Nalugya