*By John Kusolo*
Date: 25th October 2024
Time: 7:00 PM EAT
Venue: St. Mary's Stadium, Kitende
Preview
Vipers SC (the Venoms) are set to host Police FC at the St. Mary’s Stadium under the floodlights in a thrilling Uganda Premier League encounter. This evening showdown promises to be intense as Vipers aim to secure the top spot on the league table, currently held by NEC with 12 points. Positioned third with 10 points from five games, Vipers can surpass both NEC and second-placed KCCA (11 points) with a win over Police.
This fixture marks Vipers' first game since the departure of their head coach, Nikola Kavazovic, who had missed the last two matches due to suspension. Assistant coaches John Ayala Luyinda and Fred Muhumuza have been managing the team and have so far delivered results, leading the Venoms to victories over SC Villa and Wakiso Giants. The recent 2-0 win over Wakiso Giants highlighted Vipers’ attacking strength, with key contributions from playmaker Allan Okello and captain Milton Karisa.
Police FC, on the other hand, bring an unbeaten record to Kitende, drawing four of their five league games and winning one. Despite their strong defense, Police’s low scoring has cost them points, and they will be aiming to break their draw streak by taking on Vipers. This match-up not only tests Vipers’ offensive power but also Police’s defensive consistency.
Team News
Vipers SC: Isa Bugembe, who played in a midweek friendly against Rays of Grace, may return to the squad after impressing in the practice match. However, no significant changes are expected from the team that triumphed over Wakiso Giants.
Police FC: Police will be missing winger Reagan Male, who remains sidelined due to injury. However, they have received a boost with the return of Allan Bukenya from suspension, defender Reagan Matege, and Jakony Daniel, who have recovered from respective injuries. Forward Brian Obedi, also back from a recent training knock, will strengthen Police’s offensive options.
Probable Lineups
Vipers SC:
Goalkeeper: Denis Kiggundu
Defenders: Grant Matsiko, Enock Luyima, Rogers Torach, Hillary Mukundane
Midfielders: Moses Waiswa, Karim Watambala, Allan Okello
Forwards: Milton Karisa, Patrick Mbowa, Yunus Sentamu
Police FC:
Goalkeeper: Edward Kasibante
Defenders: Farouk Katongole, Denis Iguma, Tonny Kiwalazi, Allan Bukenya
Midfielders: Gaddafi Kacancu, Ivan Eyam, Denis Kalanzi
Forwards: Isaac Ogwang, Brian Obedi
*Head-to-Head*
Historically, Vipers SC has dominated Police FC in their encounters, winning the majority of their past clashes. The 2021/22 season saw Vipers prevail with a 5-0 and 2-0 scoreline against Police, emphasizing their stronghold in recent years. Police’s last victory against Vipers was in the 2015/16 season when they secured a 3-1 win. Here’s a quick look at their past encounters:
2021/22: Vipers 5-0 Police; Police 0-2 Vipers
2020/21: Vipers 3-2 Police
2019/20: Police 1-3 Vipers
2018/19: Police 1-2 Vipers; Vipers 1-0 Police
2017/18: Vipers 2-0 Police; Police 2-1 Vipers
In total, Vipers have shown an upper hand in this matchup, securing dominant wins even in away games.
Milton Karisa (Vipers): The captain and forward have shown stellar form, leading the attack and playing a crucial role in creating chances and scoring goals.
Allan Okello (Vipers): With his playmaking abilities, Okello has been instrumental in setting up goals and dictating the tempo for the Venoms.
Denis Iguma (Police): A defensive linchpin for Police, Iguma’s experience and resilience are vital in holding Vipers’ potent attack at bay.
Brian Obedi (Police): Recently returning from injury, Obedi is expected to add an edge to Police’s offense with his pace and finishing abilities.
Tactical Analysis
Vipers SC will likely dominate possession and press Police high up the pitch, leveraging their strong attacking lineup. With Karisa and Okello orchestrating forward plays, Vipers aim to create early chances to unsettle Police. Their midfield, led by Moses Waiswa, is capable of controlling the game tempo, which will be key to exploiting Police’s defense.
Police FC, however, may adopt a conservative approach, focusing on compact defending and looking to capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities. With Obedi and Ogwang leading the front, Police might aim for quick breaks, testing Vipers' defensive solidity.
This highly anticipated fixture presents Vipers with a golden opportunity to reach the summit of the Uganda Premier League, but they must break through a resilient Police FC side. Both teams have their sights set on victory, with Vipers aiming to extend their winning streak and Police looking to protect their unbeaten record. With such high stakes, St. Mary’s Stadium will witness an intense contest under the lights.
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