Uganda: Cranes Keeper Onyango Linked to Chiefs, Maritzburg

Andrew Mwanguhya

16 May 2011

Mpumalanga Black Aces’ relegation from the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) may already be a certainty but not quite that of goalkeeper Dennis Onyango.

The Ugandan shot-stopper was in breathtaking form Saturday night, denying Orlando Pirates every time they probed in the Nedbank Cup semi final, despite conceding in 110 minutes of extra time for a 1-0 loss.

Onyango’s show in Soweto would have impressed Cranes coach Bobby Williamson ahead of the crunch Nations Cup qualifier against Guinea Bissau on June 4.

It didn’t, however, get the desired place in the Nedbank final but it won Onyango the Man of the Match award for his superb performance. Onyango’s display, described by his Aces coach Mark Harrison as “phenomenal”, and a host of other performances in the league, haven’t gone unnoticed.

KickOff speculation

The KickOff magazine, a South African publication, reports that the former SuperSport United goalkeeper has been linked with PSL sides Kaizer Chiefs and Maritzburg United.

Onyango, though, says he will only decide about his next destination after Aces’ last League match against Moroka Swallows on Saturday.

David Obua comes to mind when Kaizer Chiefs are mentioned in Uganda. The Hearts forward had a successful three years at the club and had a knack for influencing big games there.

But Onyango would have a steep mountain to negotiate should he make the cut. South African number one keeper Itumeleng Khune would be right in his face. That makes Mariztburg a more likely destination. Platinum Stars and AmaZulu have also shown interest according to reports.

Onyango, 26, confirmed to KickOff that a few teams have spoken to him, but so far nothing is official.

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