UGANDA PREMIER LEAGUE
The Date: May 16th, 2023
The Contest: Vipers SC vs. Express FC
The Time: 4pm
The Venue: St Mary’s Stadium
As it’s the business end of the season, Vipers SC will need no extra motivation as they host Express FC on Tuesday at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Alex Isabirye’s charges know exactly what is at stake ahead of the tie, as every point and every goal scored or conceded at this point will have a massive impact.
We occupy the summit via a superior goal difference. On 46 points, we hold the same number as runners-up KCCA FC and third-placed SC Villa.
“Last week was tough where we lost five points and only picked one point in two games. It’s not easy because the matches come in thick and fast,” noted Isabirye to the club press on Monday.
“But we always have the belief in the quality of our squad. Combined with the hurt we suffered last week, I’m hoping we can do what’s required to win the game.”
“I am not expecting an easy game because Express FC have done well. They showed an awful lot of character against KCCA FC in Luzira over the weekend with only 14 players.”
“So, there is no chance that it’s going to be an easy game. We have to make sure we’re ready for the challenge, the battle and the fight.”
Vipers have the lion’s share of victories in this fixture, with nine wins since the 2012/13 season. Express has only three while eight matches have ended in shared spoils.
Vipers and Express will be meeting for the 35th time in Uganda’s league history since 2006 when the Venoms joined the top flight division. We have won 15, drawn 12 and lost 7 with a return of 41 goals against 23.
Head-To-Head:
Meetings: 34
Vipers wins: 15
Draws: 12
Losses: 7
Goals for: 41
Against: 23
Points: 57
While the two played out a goalless draw in the first round at Wankulukuku, we won 3-0 at Kitende last season, courtesy of a Bright Anukani goal and brace from Yunus Sentamu.
Team News:
Apart from long term absentees; Murushid Juuko, Marvin Joseph Youngman, Livingstone Mulondo and Alfred Mudekereza, Isabirye has a fully fit squad to choose from his 18 match day squad.