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Vipers SC delivered a stellar performance, securing a resounding 4-1 triumph over NEC FC in a thrilling Uganda Premier League encounter at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, under the floodlights on Wednesday.
The Venoms, eager to return to winning ways, showcased dominance with an exceptional hat-trick by Fumador Asiwome and a goal contributed by Yunus Sentamu, clinching their first victory of the new year.
In a match marking their return after a sequence of three winless games, Vipers came close to an early lead as Milton Karisa struck the crossbar in the second minute, set up by Sentamu.
NEC FC retaliated seven minutes later, but goalkeeper Denis Kiggundu thwarted Rwothomio’s header with a remarkable save.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 23rd minute when Sentamu elegantly converted an outstanding pass from Allan Okello to give Vipers the lead.
However, NEC swiftly responded, leveling the score at 1-1 just two minutes later with Rwothomio firing a low drive past Kiggundu, courtesy of an assist from Allan Mugalu.
Asiwome took charge in the second half, scoring twice for Vipers. He expertly headed in a lofted cross from Karisa before tapping in a sublime pass from Karim Watambala, securing his hat-trick in the 69th minute via a powerful header from a Bright Anukani freekick.
With this remarkable victory, Vipers SC currently holds the second spot in the league standings with 27 points, trailing leaders BUL FC by five points. Their next challenge awaits them on Sunday as they host Busoga United.
**Vipers SC Starting XI**: Denis Kiggundu (GK), Ashraf Mandela, Enock Luyima, Rogers Torach, Patrick Mbowa, Siraje Sentamu, Bright Anukani, Allan Okello, Milton Karisa (C), Fumador Asiwome, Yunus Sentamu.
