It has taken a while for Allan Kateregga to work his way into the Cape Town City side. Recently, though, on the back of a raft of injuries to the Cape side’s wingers, the flying Ugandan has finally managed to get some regular game time.
Kateregga signed for City in January this year, but has always found himself on the fringes of the starting team.
Having previously played for Ugandan Premier League champions Kampala Capital City Authority and in Kenya for AFC Leopards, the left-footer came highly recommended to City.
Known as the “Dancing Rasta”, he’s a tricky footballer, capable of unlocking tight defences. But it’s taken him a while to settle down, and adapt to his new surroundings.
Despite not playing regularly, Kateregga knuckled down and continued to work hard at his game, confident that coach Benni McCarthy would offer him an opportunity.
With Surprise Ralani, Craig Martin and Riyaad Norodien all battling to overcome niggling injuries, McCarthy has recently called on the Ugandan winger a lot more.
Kateregga played the entire 90 minutes in the 3-0 win over AmaZulu two weeks ago – and he’s looking to continue in the same vein when City host Black Leopards this afternoon (3.30pm).
“I’m just happy to be playing regularly,” said Kateregga. “I just hope the consistency can continue, both for me and the team’s results. Leopards are a good side and I’m sure they will try to catch us on the break. We have been work hard at training in trying to find a solution to counter what they bring.”
Kateregga is now settling in nicely in the Mother City. He is one of two Ugandans in the PSL – the other is Sundowns goalkeeper Denis Onyango – and both are regular squad members of their country’s national team.
“We are on the verge of back-to-back qualification for Afcon,” said Kateregga of Uganda’s national team.“The PSL is very competitive, more so than anywhere else I have played. My aim is to make my mark here. The PSL gets a lot of attention back home in Uganda.”
City will be determined to maintain their winning momentum against Leopards today. They are 11th on the PSL standings – and no doubt both Kateregga and McCarthy, will have ambitions of a loftier log position.