Danito NSUBUGA
Defending champions Express FC this evening host nemesis SC Villa in the first of this season’s encounters between the two sides.
The hosts are on the back of a string of impressive fixtures after turning their season around following a false start.
They have had two back to back wins and a solid performance against challengers Vipers SC.
Villa on the other hand have had mixed results having lost once and won once out of their two league matches played so far.
When the two sides faced off last season, Express go the better of Villa with a slim 1-0 at Wankulukuku thanks to a goal from former Villa target man George Senkaaba.
At Bombo, the spoils were shared.
Head to Head.
Villa have enjoyed a lion’s share of victories from the last 24 previous meetings between the two sides with 9 wins against Express’ 8.
Spoils have been shared on 7 occasions.
WHAT THE COACHES SAY:
BBOSA:
“We’ve had enough time to correct our mistakes during the international break, we’re looking for our first league win at home, we know how important the game is, we respect Villa but we want to earn maximum points. The boys are well prepared and also know what’s at stake”.
The tactician told www.expressfc.co.ug
PETROS KOUKOURAS:
“We have asked the boys to be calm and composed. They do not have to carry any pressure on them but rather execute the set plan,” he highlighted.
“I hear it is the biggest game in Uganda. People have told me a lot about this derby and how important it is. I greatly understand the rivalry between the two clubs but to me, it’s just an away game like the rest.”
“We have to follow our plan and do everything possible to win something from this game. My players are disciplined and the backroom is supportive so we are well streamlined for the game.”
“Express is a good team that has previously bettered their performance and we respect them, but SC Villa is a team of pedigree and whoever represents it has to stand to it.”
Koukouras said via the Official website of SC Villa
TEAM NEWS:
Express defender Arthur Kiggundu is ruled out of the match following a ban slapped on him retrospectively for deliberately handling the ball during their stalemate with Vipers.
Pacy winger Godfrey Lwesibawa and captain Enoc Walusimbi return from injury.
For SC Villa, young midfielder Isma Mugulusi and striker Charles Baale remain long term absentees and their return date is unspecified.
Starman Ronald Sekiganda managed to train with the first team during the international break but Koukouras maintains that he is not yet 100% fit.
He may play a part in the game depending on the assessment of the team doctors.
Umar Lutalo, Salim Abdallah and Iddi Abdul Wahid may also require late fitness assessments.
