Vipers edge closer to seventh league title with narrow win over Maroons
The win extends their lead at the summit to 59 points, putting them eight points clear of second-placed NEC, who have a game in hand against Mbale Heroes on Friday.
Allan Okello continued his stellar season by netting the decisive goal from the penalty spot. PHOTO0: Michael Nsubuga
Yekoyada Saaka
Journalist @New Vision
Uganda Premier League
Thursday Result
Maroons 0 Vipers 1
Friday
Police v URA 4pm
Lugazi v Bright Stars 4pm
NEC v Mbale 4pm
Saturday
SC Villa v Kitara 4pm
Wakiso v BUL 4pm
KCCA v Mbarara 7pm
Vipers SC strengthened their grip on the Uganda Premier League title race with a crucial 1-0 victory over Maroons FC at Luzira on Thursday.
The win extends their lead at the summit to 59 points, putting them eight points clear of second-placed NEC, who have a game in hand against Mbale Heroes on Friday.
Allan Okello continued his stellar season by netting the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 47th minute. The spot-kick was awarded after Maroons defender Edward Kabona handled Abdul Karim Watambala's goal-bound shot in the box.
Maroons pushed hard for an equalizer, coming closest when Norman Odipio's thunderous 25-yard strike rattled the crossbar in the 88th minute. However, Vipers' defense held firm to preserve their slender lead.
The goal was Okello's 17th of the campaign in just 25 appearances, further cementing his status as one of the league's most lethal marksmen. Despite his personal achievements, the attacking midfielder stressed that team success remains his primary objective.
"I'm happy to contribute to such an important win," Okello said after the match. "While the Golden Boot is a target, helping Vipers secure the league title is my top priority."
The result leaves Vipers needing just nine points from their remaining five matches to mathematically guarantee their seventh league crown, while Maroons remain mid-table in ninth position.