Vipers SC made a bold statement in the title race, thrashing NEC FC 3-1 in the highly anticipated top-of-the-table showdown staged on Thursday evening.
Hilary Mukundane, Allan Okello and January signing Isaac Ogwang were on target while Paul Mucureezi netted the only consolation for the visitors under the lights at St Mary’s Stadium.
The match in Kitende commenced with both sides cautious yet committed, contesting for dominance in the midfield. The hosts looked more assertive in the early stages.
Vipers struck first in the 22nd minute, defender Hilary Mukundane heading home from a beautiful delivery by Starboy Allan Okello, sending the home crowd in wild celebrations.
The Boys in Red continued to knock on the door, Okello on his 50th appearance doubled the lead in the 40th minute, capitazliing on a loose ball inside the penalty box.
Isaac Ogwang joined the party five minutes later ahead of the break, opening his account in style after being teed up by Karim Watambala, marking the halftime score at 3-0 in favor of the venoms.
NEC looking determined to overturn the result after recess, managed to find back of net towards the end, former player Paul Mucureezi reducing the deficit from the spot in the 83rd minute.
With the emphatic victory, Vipers SC tightened their grip at top of the Uganda Premier League standings, moving on 56 points, 5 clear of second-placed NEC who suffered their first defeat since October.
