Vipers SC started their title defense on good note after registered a grinding 1-0 victory over a spirited Entebbe UPPC side at Fisheries Ground, Bugonga.
It wasn’t the dominant return many expected, but it was a timely show of resilience. The defending champions, who had fallen behind schedule due to a delayed start to their campaign, found their rhythm in the second half when Karim Watambala calmly converted from a Yunus Sentamu assist in the 62nd minute.
The goal carried the weight of a statement rather than just three points that despite the noise, the champions’ winning mentality remains intact.
Entebbe UPPC, however, refused to be overawed by their decorated visitors. Former Venom Isa Bugembe nearly silenced his old teammates with a powerful effort late on, only for goalkeeper Alfred Mudekereza later named man of the match to pull off a crucial save.
The result lifts Vipers off the bottom and into 13th place, signalling the start of their catch-up mission, while UPPC slide to 8th on seven points.
Next up for the champions is a blockbuster clash against rivals KCCA FC at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende a fixture that could set the early tone for the title chase. Entebbe UPPC, on the other hand, will seek redemption away at Calvary FC.
Elsewhere, NEC edged Mbarara City 1-0 in Kamwenge to maintain their steady start to the season.
