Vipers SC delivered a composed and ruthless performance under the lights at Hamz Stadium, beating Express FC 3–0 in a Uganda Premier League clash where the Red Eagles were left to rue a catalogue of missed opportunities.
Express started the brighter side, creating the game’s early moments of danger. Richard Basangwa twice broke behind the Vipers backline but failed to convert, while Muhammad Ssenoga headed wide from a brilliant Herbert Asiimwe cross with the goalkeeper beaten. Mikidadi Ssenyonga also forced Alfred Mudekereza into a fingertip save from a well-taken free kick.
But Express’ wastefulness came back to haunt them in the 38th minute. A disastrous attempt to play out from the back gifted possession to Enock Ssebagala, who calmly slotted past goalkeeper Ali Mwirusi to give the visitors the lead against the run of play.
Express nearly responded before the break Ssenoga rattled the crossbar and Vipers survived a penalty appeal in a crowded box but the Venoms held on for a 1–0 halftime advantage.
The second half belonged entirely to Vipers.
First, Allan Okello doubled the lead in the 66th minute, racing onto a clever Usama Arafat pass before sliding the ball beyond Mwirusi. Just three minutes later, Okello turned provider, picking Lawrence Bukenya’s error and releasing substitute Isaac Ogwang, who drilled home a composed low finish to make it 3–0.
Express pushed late on, but Mudekereza produced a sharp one-handed save to deny Elvis Sekajugo, sealing a clean sheet for the Kitende side.
In the end, Vipers’ efficiency in front of goal and superior game management made the difference, while Express were left to ponder what might have been after a spirited but ultimately fruitless first-half display.
That was an absolutely fantastic display of football from Vipers! It’s great to see such a dominant performance, especially in the second half.