By 
Matchday fourteen climaxes today, Wednesday January 3rd, 2024, Vipers Sports Club is set to host NEC Football Club at 7:00 PM at the St. Mary’s Stadium.
Despite NEC finding themselves in a challenging position with three winless outings with an output of two draws and one defeat, they stand a chance to upset Vipers today at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Vipers, now acclimatizing to losses, faces a resolute NEC eager to prove themselves. NEC poses a challenge to the hosts due to several reasons.
Accustomed to playing under floodlights, NEC have strengthened their squad with experienced players, and are coached by the tactician Husein Mbalangu.
NEC FC currently exhibits a commendable tic-tac playing style while playing on artificial turf, like at St. Mary’s Stadium, will also work in the visitor’s favor.
NEC also carries minimal pressure compared to Vipers, as newcomers in the league, their primary goal is to secure a fourth place at the end of the campaign while Vipers have a domestic double to defend and aspire to return to CAF competitions.
Notably, NEC have some former Vipers’ players like Joseph Data, Cromwell Rwothomio, and others who seek to prove themselves against their former team, adding to the team’s dedicated spirit.
The players of NEC seem motivated, possibly due to the well-handled business aspect of their parent organization, the National Enterprise Corporation.
Their recent collections, including the UGX. 3,320,000, indicate financial support, and a growing fanbase is evident while they play at Omondi.
Currently occupying the sixth spot in the SUPL table standings with 21 points from 13 matches, NEC, led by coach Hussein Mbalangu, is a newcomer to the topflight league.
On the other side, Vipers come off a three-game winless streak, hoping for a turnaround under new coach Charles Livingstone Mbabazi, aiming to elevate from their fifth position with 24 points to the top three spots.
Vipers place their hopes in their new coach to kickstart the New Year on a positive note as they brace themselves to encounter NEC FC at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende today.
The Venoms’ announcement of their new head coach marked the onset of 2024, setting the stage for his debut in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League at the Kitende.
Talking to the media about the game Vipers assistant coach Richard Wasswa said
“We acknowledge that our recent performances need improvement, and securing a strong win tomorrow is the remedy we all require at this moment.”
“It’s crucial to rebound after enduring a tough few weeks. We possess immense trust and belief in our players to reverse this streak.”
“Their dedication in training with the new coach has been commendable, and we are determined to alter our current form” he concluded
NEC FC, making their maiden appearance in the top flight, have no previous head-to-head record with Vipers.
This sets the stage for an anticipated and exciting match under the floodlights.
Fixtures for 3rd January 2023
- Arua Hill FC Vs Express FC- 4:00Pm Paridi Stadium Adjumani
- Gaddafi FC Vs Bul FC-4:00pm Gaddafi Arena Jinja
- Vipers Vs NEC FC-4:00PM St Mary’s Stadium Kitende
