David GOMBE
Alex Isabirye will be in the spotlight when his inconsistent URA FC host his former paymasters Vipers SC under the floodlights of Nakivubo on Friday.
The Venoms will be targeting table leadership following KCCA FC’s defeat to NEC FC.
Vipers will go top of the Uganda Premier league table with victory over the tax collectors.
The hosts have so far had an inconsistent campaign with three wins, lost as many and two defeats.
Isabirye who guided Vipers to an elusive Cup double in the 2021/22 season will be seeking to hurt his former side.
John Ayala Luyinda coached side have managed four wins in their previous five matches only dropping points in the 1-1 stalemate against KCCA FC.
Vipers assistant coach Fred Muhumuza who previously served at URA FC expects a tough contest
“We expect a very competitive game with high intensity but it’s a job we have to do as we target maximum points against a top side away from home.”
Team News
URA FC will be boosted by the return of versatile player Hudu Mulikyi who served his one match suspension in the 2-1 defeat to Maroon. Goalkeeper Denis Otim has also fully recovered from injury.
The tax collectors will however miss the services of the trio of midfielder Isma Mugulusi, forward Shariph Kimbowa and goalkeeper Derrick Ochan who remains under rehabilitation.
Vipers SC have no fresh injuries ahead of this contest.
Key players
Isabirye’s side will look up to Ivan Ahimbishibwe and Moses Aliro for maximum points against the side they have not beaten in the last three meetings.
For the Venoms the trio of Allan Okello, Yunus Sentamu and Milton Karisa is expected to be key in their attack.
Head to Head
In the previous 22 league meetings, Vipers has an edge over URA with 8 wins, losing 7 to the tax collectors and 5 games have ended in stalemates.
