Uganda Premier League | Thursday | MD24
- Vipers 3-1 NEC
Under the floodlights of St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende, Vipers SC delivered a performance befitting title contenders, dispatching fellow challengers NEC FC 3-1 in a decisive Uganda Premier League clash on Thursday night.
From the opening whistle, the Venoms imposed their authority, controlling proceedings and sending a clear message in the title race. By halftime, the outcome was virtually sealed thanks to a relentless attacking display that left NEC shell-shocked.
The breakthrough came in the 21st minute when Hillary Mukundane rose highest to nod in a thunderous header off Allan Okello’s pinpoint free kick. The crowd had barely settled when Okello turned scorer, capitalizing on a defensive lapse after a Yunus Sentamu cross caused chaos in the box.
Vipers weren’t done. Before NEC could reset, Isaac Ogwang added a third, capping a fluid team move that began with Marvin Youngman, flowed through Okello and found its final flourish via Bobosi Byaruhanga’s clever pass.
Though Vipers missed chances to extend the lead, Okello and Watambala both going close, the damage had already been done. NEC, largely invisible in the first half, finally sparked to life after the interval. Marvin Kavuma and Paul Mucureezi probed for openings but Vipers’ defence stood firm.
A late glimmer came in the 83rd minute when NEC were awarded a penalty following Rogers Torach’s foul on James Jarieko. Mucureezi coolly converted to reduce the deficit but it was a mere consolation as time ticked away.
The result sees Vipers climb to 56 points, opening a five-point gap over NEC with six matches left. It’s a commanding position and one that puts them firmly in the driver’s seat as the title race enters its final stretch.
For NEC, the defeat is a significant blow to their dream of lifting a first-ever UPL title. For Vipers, it’s a statement win loud, clear and delivered right at home in Kitende.
They’ll look to carry the momentum into Monday’s Uganda Cup quarterfinal against SC Villa, once again at their fortress.
