Ayala who won a double along with Fred Muhumuza as Co-coaches during the 2024/25 season will take charge at Vipers once again
David GOMBE
Vipers SC will begin life after Frenchman Denis Lavagne when they visit struggling Mbarara City FC on Wednesday at Rwamwanja Stadium, Kamwenge.
The Venoms sacked Lavagne after a goalless stalemate with Police FC last Friday at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Following the Frenchman’s departure, Vipers named John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda as head coach, and he will be tasked with steering the club against the Ankole Lions.
Mbarara City are also struggling this term and have also parted ways with their coach Francis Mugerwa. They will be seeking to shock the visitors, with Zaid Byekwaso in charge on an interim basis.
The Ankole Lions are winless against the eight-time league champions since their stunning 3-2 comeback win at Kitende in 2021.
Mbarara City will take motivation from their spirited performance against Villa last week despite suffering a 2-0 defeat.
Byekwaso will hope that Ivan Bogere, formerly of SC Villa, and Muhammad Kanyike find their scoring boots against the Venoms, who have won both of their away games this season.
Away from home, Vipers have scored nine goals in two games – a 4-0 win at Blacks Power and a 5-0 win over Kataka.
Former Venoms custodian Bashir Ssekagya will hope to frustrate the forward line of Chukwuma Odili, Usama Arafat and Gusto Mulongo.
Vipers SC are sixth on the table with 11 points, while Mbarara City are 15th with just five points in six games.
Wednesday, October 29, 2026 – 4:00 PM Fixtures:
Mbarara City vs Vipers SC – Rwamwanja Stadium, Kamwenge
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