Vipers Edge SC Villa In Kavazovic’s Absence

Vipers SC returned to winning ways with a gritty 2-1 victory over arch-rivals SC Villa in a thrilling Uganda Premier League clash at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The Venoms came from behind, overcoming an early goal from Hakim Kiwanuka, to secure maximum points without head coach Nikola Kavazovic, who was suspended by the club.

SC Villa took the lead in the 36th minute when Kiwanuka, teed up by Elvis Ngonde, fired past Vipers’ goalkeeper Denis Kiggundu.

However, the lead was short-lived as Villa’s Edward Masembe was caught in possession just two minutes later. Allan Okello capitalized, setting up Yunus Sentamu, who made no mistake in drawing Vipers level.

The second half saw the hosts take control, and they completed the comeback 10 minutes after the restart. Rogers Torach bundled in a corner delivered by Karim Watambala to make it 2-1, sealing the win for the under-pressure side.

Tensions were high before the match, following Vipers’ lackluster start to the season, which saw them accumulate just four points from three games. Their struggles included a loss to NEC and a goalless draw away to Lugazi. The team’s form, coupled with head coach Nikola Kavazovic’s suspension for unspecified reasons, added to the pressure.

Sources suggest the suspension followed his comments on the club’s chances of winning the league.

Assistant coach John Ayala Luyinda and Fred Muhumuza took charge in Kavazovic’s absence, guiding the team to a crucial win against a Villa side that had previously performed well at Kitende.

Despite SC Villa’s early strike, they struggled to create meaningful chances after falling behind.

This defeat marks Villa’s second of the season, their previous loss coming at the hands of Mbale Heroes. While they’ve enjoyed home wins against Mbarara City and BUL FC, their away form remains a concern.

Vipers, meanwhile, will hope this victory reignites their title ambitions as they look to build on the momentum.

Players Used

Vipers – Denis Kiggundu, Milton Karisa, Grant Matsiko, Allan Okello, Yunus Sentamu, Enock Luyima, Hilary Mukundane, Paul Patrick Mbowa, Moses Waiswa Ndhondhi, Karim Watambala, Rogers Torach

SC Villa – Jeans Braddy Wokorach, Ronald Ssekiganda, Arnold Odong, Elvis Ngonde, Francis Onekalit, Patrick Jonah Kakande, Hakim Kiwanuka, David Owori, Missi Diego Semugera, Aslam Ssemakula, Edward Masembe