StarTimes Uganda Premier League
Tomorrow (October 26)
Onduparaka v Vipers
Greenlight Stadium, 3pm
Vipers made the long trip to Arua district to honour the rescheduled StarTimes Uganda Premier League (UPL) game with Onduparaka FC on Saturday, October 26 at the Greenlight stadium.
This game is expected to be a real test for us as we bid to pick both our first win and goal here at the home of the Caterpillars.
We have visited Onduparaka thrice but failed to win nor score a goal here. The Venoms lost 1-0 thanks to Shaban Muhammed’s goal in the 2016/17 season before registering two straight barren draws in 2017/18 and 2018/ 2019 league campaigns.
Abdullah Mubiru, Jorge Miguel Da Costa and Michael Nam Ouma were all frustrated by the Caterpillars but we wait to see if Edward Golola can break this jinx.
“We have prepared ourselves well for this game. we are aware of the history we have with our opponents but one thing I can assure you is that all that can change anytime. The boys are focused on winning and that’s what is important.”
Vipers SC Coach, Edward Golola
Meanwhile, the two sides come into this game with contrasting form. Vipers has won 6 out of 8 games making us the only unbeaten side in the league so far.
Our 2-1 victory over Bul FC during midweek elevated us to the top of the 16-team log and another triumph tomorrow will see us consolidate our lead with 23 points.
The team captain Halid Lwaliwa shares the same feeling with his coach and is confident the current winning run will boost them.
“We in great shape, our spirits are higher than they have been considering the previous visits. With collective responsibility and positive attitude, we can get maximum points.”
Vipers SC Skipper, Halid Lwaliwa
Meanwhile the hosts will be under pressure to make a quick return to their winning ways. Livingstone Mbabazi’s side has lost two of their previous games, conceding 6 and scoring just once and trail Vipers with 5 points.
Their last victory was against Wakiso Giants whom they edged 1-0 at the start of this month. It will be interesting to see if the home side can end their opponents unbeaten run.
Team News:
Former Onduparaka captain Rashid Toha is still sidelined with a knee injury.
Dan Sserunkuma did not travel to Arua but youngster Karim Watambara who missed out of the 2-1 win over Bul FC with a slight knock replaces him.
Goalkeeper Derrick Ochan returns to the the fold after being left out of the 18 man squad that played at home in midweek.
Ibrahim Tembo and Henry Kitegenyi also made the travelling squad and will be hoping to play if selected.
Rahmat Ssenfuka is still recovering from a fever but maybe available for our next games.
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