KCCA FC head coach Morely Byekwaso was full of praise for the mentality and resolve exhibited by his team in the aftermath of their 2-1 Stanbic Uganda Cup round of 16 victory over Mbarara City on Friday, March 17th.

The Kasasiro Boys managed to grind hard in order to deliver a character performance and victory over the Ankole Lions on a drab evening at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.

Simon Tshiungu Kankonde came off the bench to deliver the belated impetus in the 65th minute courtesy of a perfectly executed shot at goal, a moment that saw KCCA clinch the win and progress to the next round. Henry Kitegenyi had earlier canceled out Rogers Mato’s early lead for the hosts.

In his address to the media following the conclusion of the game, Byekwaso was quick to admit the commendable challenge the visitors put up and highlighted how getting the result was not a walk on the park;

“It has not been an easy game. Even in the past meetings, we knew we were facing a stubborn side. I would like to thank my players for the great performance,” he highlighted.

“It gives me joy that my striking line is improving. Our strategy is of rotating these players is now working out. It’s not like last season where the struggles were vivid for everyone to see. They are now doing a great job,” he added.

He would go ahead to emphasize the need for more consistence as he kept going on and on about the spirit of resilience his team showcased; “We need more of this spirit and level of performances going forward,” he concluded.

Victory ensured that KCCA advanced to the Quarter finals, joining other UPL sides like Vipers, Bright Stars, Express, BUL who had earlier booked their tickets.

KCCA under the stewardship of Byekwaso will be looking to end their trophy drought and a double is definitely on the horizon. They current lead the race in the Uganda Premier league and are now into the quarter finals of the Uganda Cup.