Talking points: Three winners and losers of UPL Matchday 19

The Uganda Premier League always brings plenty of talking points, and match day 19 was no exception. Across Friday and Saturday, there were strong performances and a few disappointing displays that caught attention.

Some players stepped up and made a real difference for their teams, delivering goals, assists and important moments. At the same time, a few others struggled to make an impact and left supporters expecting more.

Here is the look at the talking points from the match day as we focus on winners and losers.

WINNERS

Vipers SC

Champions Vipers were the biggest winners on match day 19 edging hosts Mbarara City 2-1 in Kamwenge.

Yunus Sentamu got the winner after Tom Kakaire had cancelled out a first half goal from Usama Arafat.

If the Ankole Lions held on for a draw, Vipers’ title ambitions would have suffered a dent.

The result takes the Venoms four point ahead of second placed Kitara at the top of the table giving them more control in the title race.

KCCA FC

For the third time in a row, KCCA picked maximum points beating Police 2-1 at Lugogo with goals from Herbert Achai and Said Mayanja.

The first half performance was superb, arguably the best at Lugogo this season and they stay five points adrift of Vipers in third place.

NEC

NEC continues steady rise after beating Lugazi 2-0 away with Samuel Ssekamatte getting a brace.

That result saw the Bugolobi based side improve their points tally to 30 and close in on top five.

LOSERS

Kitara

Kabon Living late penalty salvaged a point for Kitara at UPDF but it was two points lost in the title race.

Kitara missed an opportunity of moving to the top then and put more pressure on Vipers before they faced Mbarara City.

SC Villa

SC Villa’s title ambitions continued to fade following a frustrating stalemate with traditional rivals Express at Kadiba.

That result leaves the record champions nine points off the summit, with a game in hand though (waiting for a decision from the abandoned Calvary match).

Meanwhile, Villa has one two wins in the previous six matches [D3, L1]

Mbarara City

The Ankole Lions are still fighting for their lives and after holding on to a point against Vipers, they will be hurt to drop all three points.

That defeat leaves Mbarara City with 15 points, just two ahead of sides occupying the top spot in relegation.