Kampala — OWEN Kasule and Brian Umony got the goals for Sam Ssimbwa's XI but the focus remained on Caeser Okhuti's positive contribution to the national team.

Although Okhuti's combination with Umony is yet to produce results, coach Bobby Williamson looks set to stick to his fast forward when the Challenge Cup starts next week.

The Bunamwaya striker, whose explosive left foot and speed are a thorn to defences, was off the mark as Sam Ssimbwa's XI held Jackson Mayanja's XI to a 2-2 draw in a Cranes build-up game on Wednesday at Namboole.

While the opening games start as scheduled at Bugembe in Jinja, organisers confirmed yesterday that Mandela Stadium, Namboole will be available on January 1.

"We spoke to Namboole management and they assured us that prayers end early on January 1, so there will be time for them to set the stadium ready," said FUFA vice-president Asuman Lubowa.

Also, Ugandan referees Ali Kalyango and assistant Hussein Bugembe will handle CECAFA games. Fred Mufuta is on standby.

Trial game

Ssimbwa XI 2 Mayanja XI 2

CECAFA Opening game

Wednesday

Zambia v Djibouti, Sudan v Kenya

Thursday

Uganda v Rwanda, Zanzibar v Somalia