By Spy Uganda
Vipers SC made history by clinching their first-ever Uganda double in an impressive fashion after securing the country’s FA Cup over the weekend.
The newly crowned 2022/23 StarTimes Uganda Premier League champions completed their remarkable feat by edging out Police 1-0 in a thrilling Stanbic Uganda Cup final at the Akii Bua Stadium in Northeast Uganda on Saturday.
The pivotal moment arrived in the 15th minute when Vipers SC captain Milton Karisa connected with a powerful header from Bright Anukani’s perfectly placed corner kick.
Karisa’s goal proved to be the difference, propelling the Venoms to their unprecedented double triumph.
Having defended their Uganda Premier League title just two weeks prior, Vipers SC joined an exclusive group of Ugandan clubs that have achieved a major domestic double.
The illustrious company includes SC Villa, Express, and KCCA, who have all tasted success in the league and cup competitions.
However, among these accomplished clubs, SC Villa stands as the most successful, having won an impressive six league and cup doubles in 1986, 1988, 1989, 1998, 2000, and 2002. Express (1995), KCCA (2017), and now Vipers (2023) have each accomplished the feat once. (https://semidotinfotech.com)
The victory also marked a historic moment for Vipers SC head coach Alex Isabirye, who secured his third Uganda Cup title.
Vipers win the Uganda League title
Isabirye previously tasted cup success with URA, Victoria University, and BUL. His name now joins an esteemed list of coaches who have achieved a major double in Ugandan football, including Polly Ouma (Villa), Geoff Hudson (British-Villa), Jimmy Muguwa (Express), Paul Hasule (Villa), Micho Sredojevic (Serb-Villa), and Mike Mutebi (KCCA).
Individual accolades were also awarded at the conclusion of the tournament. Vipers’ Fabien Mutombora was named the best goalkeeper of the competition, showcasing his exceptional shot-stopping abilities. Police midfielder Missi Diego Semugera was recognized for his outstanding contributions in the midfield.
Furthermore, Vipers SC’s Ashraf Mandela was lauded as the tournament’s best defender, demonstrating his defensive prowess throughout the campaign. On the scoring front, Emmanuel Loki of Soltilo Bright Stars emerged as the top scorer with an impressive tally of five goals.
The double triumph of Vipers SC will forever be etched in the history of Ugandan football, solidifying their status as a dominant force in the nation’s footballing landscape. The club’s success serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and teams, highlighting the rewards of hard work, talent, and dedication. As Vipers SC celebrates their historic achievement, their focus will now shift towards preparing for next season’s TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.
