Vipers SC stretched their perfect start to the 2025/26 Uganda Premier League season with a hard-fought 2–1 triumph over Maroons FC at St Mary’s Stadium, a contest defined by Usama Arafat Kiiza’s first strike for the reigning champions.
Just two minutes in, Vipers went ahead when Maroons defender Derick Basoga inadvertently deflected Yunus Sentamu’s effort into his own net, giving the Venoms an early cushion and energising the home crowd.
Six minutes later, St Mary’s erupted again as Usama announced his arrival in spectacular fashion, unleashing a thunderous long-range effort that left goalkeeper Simon Tamale rooted.
It was a landmark moment for the young attacker, greeted by a swarm of jubilant teammates.
Vipers pressed on with confidence. Abdul Karim Watambala smacked the woodwork midway through the opening half, while substitute Allan Okello, who replaced the injured Mark Yallah, forced Tamale into a sharp stop shortly after stepping onto the pitch.
But the tone shifted after halftime. Maroons reorganised, grew braver in possession, and clawed one back in the 58th minute when Raymond Walugembe tucked away a slick team move that split the Vipers defence.
Smelling vulnerability, the visitors chased the equaliser relentlessly. Jackson Nunda came agonisingly close, drilling into the side-netting after wriggling free in the box. The once-comfortable Venoms suddenly had to grit their teeth to protect their lead.
Despite the late pressure, Vipers showed the resolve of champions and held out to secure their third win in as many matches, adding to earlier victories over Entebbe UPPC and KCCA FC.
With nine points in the bag, the defending champions now shift focus to their Wednesday trip to Express FC on November 26, 2025, as they aim to keep their unbeaten run alive.
