At the start of the season, no one gave Villa a chance to be in the top four, let alone in the title race.
The 2022/23 Startimes Uganda Premier League season is the closest SC Villa have come to winning the title in 19 years.
Their efforts, however, hit a dead end on the final of the season as the Jogoos surrendered the trophy to Vipers following a morale-sapping 1-0 loss to URA FC.
)
09:51 - 27.05.2023
LIVE: Vipers SC are the 2022/23 Uganda Premier League Champions.
SC Villa's final collapse gifts Vipers SC the Uganda Premier League Title. The Kitende based side edged Busoga united to win the title on goal difference
The 16-time champions ended the season in third place, a point off the top spot and trophy-thirsty fans were left in sheer devastation.
But if that was supposed to break the players' backs, it has only strengthened their belief and zeal to go again next season.
"I still believe we're winners in the making," team captain and defender Gift Fred is quoted by the club's social media channels.
"And for the good fight put up, we shall base on the pills of experience acquired to rise up again," he added.
"Thanks to the fans for the unending belief and support towards us. Heads up Joogos."
At the start of the season, no one gave Villa a chance to be in the top four, let alone in the title race.
The club had held trials in search of players before the season kicked off while the likes of Vipers and KCCA were busy spending big in the transfer market.
And to make matters worse, the Jogoos had two points and as many goals deducted following fans' trouble during and after the 2-0 loss to Wakiso Giants.
08:32 - 31.05.2023
UPL Points deduction cost SC Villa the Uganda Premier League title, says head coach Jackson Magera
Villa were docked two points and two goals as punishment for their fans’ shenanigans during their league game against Wakiso Giants.
The deductions came with a stadium ban for fans and the club being ordered to play five of their home games away from their home ground, Wankulukuku.
But despite all that, Villa went into the last match of the season top of the log and only needed to win against URA to win their first league title in 19 years.
The club will now hope to hold onto some of their key players, the likes of Gift Fred, Kenneth Semakula, Charle Bbaale, Travis Mutyaba and David Owori, to build on this season's progress.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)