Vipers Sports Club began their Uganda Premier League title defense with a 2-1 victory over Gaddafi FC at the Gaddafi Arena in Jinja on Sunday.
Captain Milton Karisa led by example, scoring in the 27th minute to put the Venoms ahead. Yunus Sentamu provided the assist.
Four minutes before halftime, Mauritanian forward Mohamed Salem Ekbad doubled Vipers’ lead, tapping the ball into an empty net after goalkeeper Denis Ochieng made a save.
Gaddafi came out fighting in the second half and pulled a goal back in the 55th minute through Benson Muhindo, who converted a penalty after Amos Kirya was fouled by Rogers Torach.
The hosts had a chance to equalize in the 70th minute when Siraje Ssentamu appeared to bring down Rashid Mpata in the box, but referee George Olemu waved away the penalty appeals.
Gaddafi had several chances to score in the closing stages of the match, but Muhindo was wasteful in front of goal.
In the other matches played on Sunday, UPDF FC drew 0-0 with URA FC at the Bombo Military Barracks Ground, while Wakiso Giants FC lost 3-0 to Maroons FC at the Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium.
At the Paridi Stadium, Busoga United FC defeated home side Arua Hill SC 1-0 courtesy of Isaac Doca Mweru‘s 15th minute goal.
The Uganda Premier League will resume on Thursday with Vipers hosting Arua Hill.
Courtesy Photos
