I want to partner Olunga, says Wamalwa after impressive CECAFA show

 Jacob Icia in Kampala

Ulinzi Stars striker Oscar Wamalwa  now wants to graduate to the first senior team after an inspiring start with Harambee Stars at the ongoing CECAFA Senior Challenge in Kampala, Uganda.

This he argues will grant him the relished opportunity to partner Harambee Stars lead striker Michael Olunga in a potentially deadly two-prong attack.

Wamalwa has bagged two goals in his first three matches, and has been trusted by head coach Francis Kimanzi to lead Kenya’s attack for a maximum 270 minutes played so far.

With technical bench having made it crystal clear that the tournament is a platform for recruiting players to the first team, Wamalwa cannot wait to make the big leap ahead of the forthcoming 2021 African Cup of Nations qualifiers.

“I’m happy with the start. I have never been called up in the national team and I feel the start is just amazing. It would be a dream come true to partner Olunga in the national team, and learn directly from him.

“I have been watching him a lot, he is a player I admire and respect. He can only help me get better if I get a chance of playing alongside him,” observed Wamalwa.

The tall, well-built hit-man is not yet done yet with his goal-hunt duty in Kampala, heading to the semifinals.

“I have to keep doing my best. This is just a start. When the coach shows trust in you with such an opportunity, it becomes your duty to justify your position in the team; it is both a challenge and a motivation to me,” added the former Bidco United forward.

In what he admits to be a very competitive CECAFA tournament, Wamalwa wants to lift the Golden Boot at the peak of the competition.

“I’m in that (Golden Boot race), yes, I still have two more matches (to play) and a lot can happen during that time. I hope I can score more and win it,” he said.

Winning comes through scoring, and we want to take back the trophy home. As a striker this is a responsibility,” a confident Wamalwa offered.