Vipers SC defender Livingstone Mulondo expressed his belief that the team’s 1-0 away victory over ten-man UPDF has boosted their chances of defending the Uganda Premier League title.
“We showed great character in this game,” Mulondo said.
“This victory puts us in a strong position to win the title. We fought hard even under tough conditions. When it rained, many thought we might struggle, but we are used to playing on both artificial and natural pitches. So we knew what we wanted to do.”
Mulondo capitalized on a defensive mix-up following a corner kick from playmaker Bright Anukani, tto slot the ball past UPDF goalkeeper Simon Mabuya handing Vipers a 10th minute lead.
Shortly after, Milton Karisa‘s goal was controversially disallowed after a supposed foul in the buildup, preventing Vipers from doubling their advantage.
The match was temporarily halted in the 30th minute due to torrential downpour, resuming after a 23-minute break with Vipers maintaining their 1-0 lead at halftime.
Despite losing defender Aggrey Kirya to a second yellow card following a foul on Vipers’ substitute Asiwome Fumador, UPDF emerged an improved side in the second half, determined to salvage at least a point.
Vipers also had opportunities to extend their lead, with Congolese winger Rodrigue Shamamba‘s effort being thwarted by goalkeeper Simon Mabuya.
Fumador’s late challenge in the Vipers penalty area raised concerns of a potential penalty, but referee Mashood Ssali waved away the appeals.
In the dying moments, UPDF’s final chance to level the score fell to right-back Christopher Tebandeke, whose attempt sailed wide, sealing their defeat.
The victory propelled Vipers to 20 points, four points behind table leaders BUL FC, while UPDF remained in 13th position with 8 points.
Courtesy Photos
