Exciting Showdown: SUPL title race comes down to the wire

Vipers SC have failed to defend the SUPL title on each of the previous four occasions that they need have lifted the league title | Photo Credit: Courtesy

SUPL Exciting Showdown: SUPL title race comes down to the wire

Shafic Kiyaga 20:42 - 26.05.2023

The stakes have never been higher, with a mere two points separating the top three contenders. Villa currently leads the pack with 52 points, followed closely by Vipers SC and KCCA FC, both sitting on 50 points apiece.

The tension is palpable as the entire nation eagerly awaits the climax of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League season, with the title race poised to deliver an exhilarating finale that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.

Sports Club Villa, KCCA FC, and Vipers SC are set to engage in an epic battle as they vie for the coveted championship crown on the much-anticipated final day.

Saturday, May 27, 2023, promises a trio of scintillating encounters that will define the destiny of the league title.

The stakes have never been higher, with a mere two points separating the top three contenders. Villa currently leads the pack with 52 points, followed closely by Vipers SC and KCCA FC, both sitting on 50 points apiece.

A slip-up from any of these teams on the final day could prove costly, with goal difference expected to play a pivotal role in determining the ultimate victor.

Record league winners Villa finds itself back in the title picture after a remarkable resurgence this season.

Led by the astute coach Jackson Magera, the team has defied expectations and expertly blended youthful energy with seasoned experience to mount a surprise challenge for a 17th league title.

Villa, currently perched atop the table with 52 points, is determined to reclaim the glory that has eluded them since their last triumph in 2004.

Speaking about the forthcoming clash against URA FC at Wankulukuku, joint leading top scorer Charles Bbaale said they are ready to step up to the challenge.

“Our focus is on our game only, we cannot be thinking about the opponents in the race, not at this time,” Bbaale told Pulse Sports.

“The job is simple; we have to win our game. I know URA will not be an easy game, but we are ready for the challenge.”

“We know what we need to do, every player is fully aware of what is at stake, and we are all willing to give it our best shot,” he added.

Reigning champions Vipers SC hosts the enigmatic Busoga United at the St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende.

With the advantage of a superior goal difference, Vipers have positioned themselves favourably in the title race.

Club head coach Alex Isabirye exuded confidence, expressing, “We are ready and know we have to play well and shall do our level best to make sure we win tomorrow’s game.”

“We have no injuries; the players are prepared and the target always is to get three points from whichever game we play.”

“In some games we’ve played we failed to hit that target, but you can see the players are always trying,” he told the club’s media.

The Venoms could retain the title if they win at Busoga United – who secured their top flight status with a draw against KCCA – on the final day.

The hold the biggest advantage in terms of goal difference, and will need to better or match KCCA’s result. Vipers will also win the title if they win, Villa draws and regardless of KCCA’s result.

Meanwhile, KCCA FC finds themselves trailing in the title race, they possess an unyielding spirit and refuse to relinquish their hopes of championship glory.

The 13-time SUPL champions will host Soltilo Bright Stars at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.

To win the title, the Kasasiro Boys need to win against Bright Stars at Lugogo and hope Vipers and SC Villa fail to win.

KCCA FC can also win the title if Vipers lose to Busoga at Kitende, and Villa draw against URA FC.

If Vipers win and Villa fail to win, KCCA can also lift the title if they better their result by six goals. Meaning, a 1-0 win for Vipers will require KCCA to win 8-0 or with a difference of eight goals.

To the delight of football enthusiasts nationwide, all three games will be televised live on Sanyuka Prime, FUFA TV, and BBS Telefayina, ensuring no fan misses a moment of the intense action.

Kickoff for the three games has also been pulled early to 3 PM (local time) to also facilitate the trophy awarding ceremony.

Tags: