Uganda Premier League: Vipers tighten title grip as BUL and KCCA cruise

Photo by UPL media.

Vipers SC moved a step closer to securing a record-extending seventh Uganda Premier League title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over UPDF at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on Tuesday.

Gusto Mulongo netted the all-important goal in the 73rd minute, slotting past the keeper to register Vipers’ 19th win of the campaign – the most by any team this season. The result lifted coach John Luyinda’s side to 62 points, stretching their lead at the summit to eight.

Siraje Ssentamu earned Man of the Match honours for his commanding display in midfield. Second-placed NEC, who play Mbarara City at Kakyeka on Wednesday, have a chance to reduce the gap back to five points, however, the end of the season looms.

Elsewhere, BUL FC lit up the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru with a commanding 4-0 thrashing of Lugazi FC to solidify third place with 49 points. Abdul Karim Ndugwa starred with a brace – his first goal coming in the 27th minute from Reagan Kalyowa’s assist, before completing his double early in the second half after a brilliant setup by Swabir Mpasa.

Ibrahim Orit and Hillary Onek joined the party with goals in the 62nd and 69th minutes, respectively, sealing BUL’s 13th win of the season and keeping their faint title hopes mathematically alive.

At the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo, KCCA FC continued their revival under interim coach Jackson Magera, defeating a ten-man Police FC side 2-1 for their second successive win.

Shafik Nana Kwikiriza opened the scoring early in the seventh minute, but the visitors drew level midway through the first half via Umar Kasumba’s penalty. Usama Arafat restored KCCA’s lead in the 71st minute, and Police’s task was made harder when Matthias Muwanga received his marching orders for a second yellow card in the 86th minute.

The win lifts KCCA to fifth place on 40 points, while Police FC remain in danger, just two spots above the relegation zone with 30 points.