By the end of Saturday, Vipers had successfully put behind their continental disappointment, where they were ejected from the Caf Champions League by Nigeria’s Enyimba on their debut appearance.

Also, coach George Nsimbe’s men had effectively cut KCCA’s lead in the Azam Uganda Premier League (UPL) to just four points thanks to a 2-0 victory over Sadolin Paints. KCCA lost 1-0 to Bul.

That feel-good factor can now continue if Vipers starve off a rejuvenated Lweza, which will bring the defending Champions to within just a point of KCCA’s 35.

KCCA and Vipers were expected to challenge for the title, and they have not disappointed so far.

What coaches say :

And with Vipers in with a chance of opening a two-point lead if they win this evening and pick maximum points from their next game in hand, the importance of a result here cannot be overstated. “I’m happy with how the boys applied themselves against Sadolin and I am glad we have managed to reduce the points margin with KCCA,” Vipers assistant coach Edward Golola noted.

“There is no relaxing and we must win tomorrow’s (today’s) game against Lweza so as to get to catch up with KCCA.”

But Lweza, beaming with confidence after beating Maroons 2-0 at the weekend, will want to have a say in that. “Yes, Vipers want to catch KCCA but we are also fighting relegation,” countered Mutyaba, “So we must beat them.”

Lweza team news:

Ibrahim Kiyemba (knee) is still out but Mutyaba welcomes back striker Geoffrey Sserunkuma, who is expected to start on the bench.

Mutyaba is also expected replace Ayub Kisalita at right back with Fred Okot in a form-informed shake-up.

Vipers team news:

Shafik Bakaki (knee) and William Wadri (recuperating from hernia operation) are still out for Vipers.

Coaches Nsimbe and Golola will still count on scorers on Saturday, Mike Mutyaba and Saddam Juma’s experience to overcome stubborn Lweza.

Today’s UPL match at Wankulukuku
Lweza vs Vipers
Live on Azam Pay TV @4pm

Additional reporting by Monitor