Vipers remain unconvincing despite returning to summit

KAMPALA. Vipers recorded their first win in four games with a 2-1 triumph over bottom side Paidha Black Angels in the Uganda Premier League on Friday.

The result allowed the champions to return to the summit of the 16-log with 18 points after eight games ahead of Mbarara, Bright Stars and KCCA.

Vipers performance however left a lot to be desired with a Caf Champions League preliminary round tie away to Sudan’s El Merreikh on Wednesday.

They took a 59th minute lead when striker Tito Okello tucked away a penalty after referee Brian Nsubuga deemed a budge on Abraham Ndugwa to have been worthy of a foul.
“Penalties are about perception. The referees’ perception,” Vipers coach Javier Martinez said of the decision. A spirited Paidha who have endured administrative fights and remain bottom of the table however battled back through captain Cromwel Rwotomio’s volley six minutes later.

Geoffrey Wasswa, captain on the day then took all three points for Vipers in added time after he was given space to run at the visiting defense to beat goalkeeper John Kalumba at his near post.

“Was a little difficult today because they played with a line of five. We didn’t pay too much attention after we scored that’s why I’m afraid. The good thing is the result. We have enough time to correct these mistakes,” added Martinez.

He started the game without several first choice players including Moses Waiswa and captain Taddeo Lwanga who returned late with the Cranes while lead striker Dan Sserunkuma made a 10 minute cameo.
“I made a change to try to get speedier that’s why I played Joseph Janjali and Brian Kalumba. All my players now have minutes,” Martinez explained.