Uganda Premier League | Thursday – Matchday 22
- Vipers 1-0 Lugazi
- Bright Stars 3-1 Police
Vipers SC returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Lugazi on Thursday night at Kitende, reclaiming momentum in their title chase.
Abdul Karim Watambala’s stunning second-half strike proved decisive as the Venoms bounced back from their shocking defeat to SC Villa.
The hosts started the game on the front foot, creating numerous chances in the first half. Isaac Ogwang came close twice but was denied by Lugazi’s impressive goalkeeper Juma Mutebi while Emmanuel Obua cleared off the line to keep Vipers at bay. Marvin Youngman and Yunus Sentamu also had opportunities but failed to convert.
After the break, Vipers maintained their attacking intensity. Ogwang missed two clear-cut chances, and Youngman squandered a promising opportunity following a swift counterattack.
However, the breakthrough finally arrived in the 68th minute when Watambala, making his return to the team, latched onto Rogers Torach’s pass and unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box, sending the home crowd into wild celebrations.
Despite continued pressure, Vipers couldn’t extend their lead with Pedro Sukuya, Allan Okello, and Ogwang all missing chances. Nevertheless, the crucial win pushed them to 52 points, five clear of second-placed NEC, who play UPDF on Friday.
Meanwhile, Lugazi’s struggles continued with their second consecutive defeat, leaving them in 11th place with 26 points and battling to secure top-flight survival.
Vipers now turn their attention to an away fixture against Express at Nakivubo as they aim to tighten their grip on the league title.
Earlier, Bright Stars stunned Police 3-1 to brighten their chances of survival.
UPL action will continue on Friday, April 4, with the fixtures below;
- UPDF Vs NEC – Bombo | 4 PM
- Mbarara Vs URA – Kakyeka | 4 PM
- BUL Vs SC Villa – Njeru | 4 PM
