By James Robert Kayindi
SC Villa, the 2015 Uganda Cup defending champions, failed to take advantage of a 10-man Vipers, the league reigning champions, as they lost the FUFA Super Cup on Saturday at Nakivubo Stadium.
The two sides played to a goalless first half despite Villa being awarded a penalty towards half time after Vipers defender Halid Lwalirwa fouled Peter Lwesibawa in the forbidden area.
The Jogoos’ returnee Robert Achema from Bul fc claimed the spot kick at the expense of striker Umar Kasumba before failing to convert from 12-yards to end the first half 0-0.
Both tacticians made changes after recess as Vipers handed debut to their latest summer recruit William Wadri while Antonio Flores offered Martin Kizza a chance to exhibit his potential.
Vipers’ enterprising star, Farouk Miya forced Villa’s goalie Stephen Odongo into a save with a curling strike shortly before the referee put normal time to an end.
Miya, Joseph Mpande, Brian Nkuubi, Deus Bukenya and William Wadri were all on the spot as they converted for Vipers while Yeseri Waibi on the other hand missed Villa’s first kick.
Misi Katende, Ambrose Kirya and Katongole converted the three for Villa as Vipers won the season curtain raiser 5-3. The league kicks off next Saturday.
Vipers SC XI: Ismail Watenga (GK), Nicolas Wadada, Dan Birikwalira, Halidi Lwalirwa, Siraje Sentamu, Deus Bukenya, Keziron Kizito, Saddam Juma, Erisa Ssekisambu, Farouk Miya
Subs: James Alitho, Yusuf Mukisa, Duncan Seninde, Joseph Mpande, Joseph Semujju, Brian Nkuubi, William Wadri
SC Villa XI: Steven Odong (GK), Misi Katende, Waibi Yesseri, Henry Katongole, Jonathan Mugabi, Lwanga Tadeo, Lwesibawa Godfrey, Achema Robert, Kasumba Umar, Tokko Fahad, Martin Kiiza
Subs: Samson Kirya, Abel Eturude, Muwadda Kateregga, Otim Derus, Ochero Sulaiman, Kirya Ambrose, John Adriko
Email Robert: Robert.k.circles@gmail.com
