Vipers’ head coach Denis Lavagne has described the defeat to Entebbe UPPC in the league opener as a lesson ahead of their Caf Champions League preliminary first leg clash against Nouadhibou.
Kevin Dayslva turned Thomas Ochungo’s cross into his own net to hand his side a false start to their title defence.
“We were not good enough,” he admitted in an interview with Kawowo Sports. “We had a very good performance in the Super Cup but today (versus UPPC), we failed to create opportunities, didn’t defend well and conceded a bad goal,” he added.
“But in the second half, we improved but not enough. We played more in the opponents’ half, but we didn’t create many chances as well.
“This loss is a good lesson to us as we prepare for the Champions League. We have a whole week to do so and the target is to try have the good performance we had in the Super Cup to expect a win against Nouadhibou.”
The French man praised Entebbe UPPC for their game plan that made it hard for his team to beat them.
“The opponents defended well, were good in possession and on counter attacks. Truth is, we had a bad performance after a good performance in the Super Cup.”
Lavagne also defended his team selection saying the same eleven did well against Kitara and therefore didn’t have to change a winning team.
“Against Kitara, the same team put up a very good show, created chances and even scored good goals. If it aint broken, then why change it.”
Despite the disappointment, the former Indomitable Lions coach remains optimistic of winning in the Caf Champions League.
“I promise we shall react and have a good game on Saturday. Fans should come in big numbers and get behind us.”
Vipers will be in action on Saturday as they aim to establish a first leg advantage against Mauritanian opponents.
