In a display of unrivaled prowess, Vipers SC has accomplished a remarkable feat by successfully defending the champions of the Star Times Uganda Premier League. On the dramatic final day of the season, a resounding 5-0 victory over Busoga United at the St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende solidified their status as the unrivaled victors.
The path to their championship glory demanded not only a triumphant performance but also fervent prayers for SC Villa’s misfortune in their final encounter against URA FC. Miraculously, SC Villa fell short, thereby granting Vipers the coveted trophy on the ultimate day of the season.
Although they began the much-anticipated day at the pinnacle, SC Villa only concluded the season in third place, as KCCA also delivered a resounding blow to Bright Stars with a 5-0 victory. Despite both Vipers and KCCA sharing equal points (53), Vipers secured the title by virtue of a superior goal difference.
Within the captivating clash at Kitende, Abubakar Lawal exhibited his prowess with an impressive double, while Yunus Sentamu, Martin Kizza, and Bright Anukani each contributed a goal, thus sealing a historic triumph for Vipers.
Simultaneously, at the revered Lugogo grounds, where KCCA FC hosted Bright Stars, the formidable forward Rogers Mato netted an astounding four goals, complemented by Charles Lwanga’s masterful strike. But, in the end, they could only secure the second spot in the final league standings.
A Solemn Day at Wankulukuku
The day unfolded as a strenuous and poignant affair for SC Villa fans, who had assembled in vast numbers, their hearts filled with ardent hope as their beloved team aspired to lift the elusive trophy, which had eluded them for nearly two decades.
However, fate had a different narrative in store, as URA FC silenced the almost capacity-filled Mutesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku with a resolute 1-0 victory over the hosts, SC Villa, courtesy of Najib Fesali’s second-half goal.
In the early hours of the day, an atmosphere of jubilation permeated Wankulukuku, as Villa fans anticipated a joyous occasion, bolstered by their advantageous position over rivals Vipers and KCCA FC.
Initially, Villa harbored hopes of finding the back of the net, spearheaded by the endeavors of Charles Bbaale, but, their valiant attacks were systematically repelled by URA’s stalwart defensive line.
In the 61st minute, URA seized a golden opportunity from a freekick executed by the talented Saidi Kyeyune. It was Najib Fesali who rose above the rest, skillfully directing the ball into the net, effectively extinguishing SC Villa’s aspirations of claiming the coveted trophy.
Although SC Villa made valiant attempts to equalize, their endeavors were relentlessly frustrated by URA’s vigilant custodian, Nafian Alionzi.
As the final whistle reverberated throughout the stadium, a wave of desolation swept over a multitude of Villa supporters, disoriented by the unforeseen turn of events. Some individuals, overwhelmed by disappointment, departed the premises, while others unleashed a torrent of vitriol towards the URA FC players, blaming them for dashing their dreams of championship glory.
In the same development, grief-stricken and emotionally drained, SC Villa players succumbed to tears, their hearts heavy with the weight of a two-decade-long league title drought.