By 
- Arua Hill FC 0-1 Express FC
- Gaddafi FC 2-1 Bul FC
- Vipers 4-1 NEC FC
Sports club Vipers exhibited their prowess by securing a decisive 4-1 victory over the newly promoted NEC Football Club in an exhilarating match at St. Mary’s Stadium Kitende on Wednesday evening.
The opening goal transpired in the 23rd minute, orchestrated by Allan Okello’s sublime cross from the right flank, deftly met by Yunus Junior Ssentamu, who secured the lead for Vipers with a well-placed tap-in.
A pivotal moment thwarted NEC’s scoring ambitions In the 31st minute, Cromwel narrowly missed an opportunity to score as his well-placed header hit the post, denying NEC FC a potential goal.
However, Cromwel Rwothomio’s skillful control and subsequent shot in the 32nd minute found the net, drawing level for the visitors.
This goal stemmed from a brilliant assist by Allan Mugalu, evading Vipers’ defenders before setting up Cromwell.
The tactical substitution of NEC FC player Jamiru Kimwero for Marvin Kavuma in the 35th minute, followed by Kavuma assuming the captain’s armband, showcased Coach Mbalangu Husein’s strategic maneuvering.
The first half ended with a 1-1 scoreline, although NEC demonstrated superiority whenever they possessed the ball.
Vipers, fielding Allan Okello and Bright Anukani, left defensive midfielder Siraje Ssentamu exposed. The introduction of Abdul Karim Watambala injected much-needed balance into the team.
The second half commenced with subdued intensity until Milton Karisa’s precise assist allowed Asiwome Fumador to secure his first goal for Vipers with a floating header, reinstating Vipers’ lead at the 55th-minute mark.
Vipers solidified their advantage in the 66th minute when a seamless interchange of play between Yunus Junior Ssentamu and Watambala led to the latter assisting Asiwome Fumador, doubling his individual tally and extending Vipers’ lead.
As the game progressed, Vipers maintained control, rendering NEC’s attempts to score futile.
A remarkable free-kick by Bright Anukani and a perfectly timed header by Asiwome Fumador culminated in Vipers’ fourth goal and a hat-trick for Fumador in the 68th minute.
The match concluded with Vipers dictating play, securing them the second spot in the league with 27 points from 14 matches.
Their five-point gap from table-toppers Bul FC, who suffered a 2-1 defeat against Gaddafi FC in the Jinja derby, emphasizes Vipers’ contention for the top spot.
Despite departing due to an injury, Ghanian international Asiwome Fumador earned the Pilsner Man of the Match and the fans’ Player of the Match accolades.
In their upcoming fixtures, Vipers will host Busoga United Football Club at St. Mary’s Stadium Kitende, while NEC FC will face Arua Hill at the Philip Omondi Stadium.
Starting Line ups
SC Vipers
Milton Karisa (C), Dennis Kiggundu (GK) Yunus Junior Ssentamu, Siraje Ssentamu, Allan Okello, Ashraf Mandela, Bright Anukani, Enock Luyima, Paul Mbowa, Rogers Torach, Asiwome Fumador
NEC FC
Sulaiman Ssesazi (C) Okiria Micheal (GK) Tah Kelvin, Ibrahim Thembo, Cromwel Rwothomio, Allan Mugalu, Shamir Kimwero, Joseph Dhata, John Acire, Rashid Okocha, Enock Ssebagala.
