For only the second time in the premier league history, Vipers lost their opening match with a 3-1 defeat to NEC at the MTN Omondi stadium, Lugogo.

Ex-Vipers forwards Paul Mucureezi and Cromwell Rwothomio scored in the second half to add on an early strike by Muzamir Mutyaba with Livingstone Mulondo leveller turning into a mere consolation.

When was the first time Vipers lost an opener?

The last time this happened was in 2012/13 season and on the fateful day, September 25, 2022, Vipers SC lost 2-1 at home to Entebbe FC.

Yusuf Kinene scored twice for the visitors with Robert Kimuli getting the Venoms consolation.

The prolific forward put the visitors ahead in the 36th minute after a howler by Hamza Muwonge but Vipers SC skipper Robert Kimuli put the hosts level in the 42nd minute when he headed home Godfrey Walusimbi’s corner kick to ensure the first half ended in a stalemate.

During the second half, Kinene completed his brace in the 55th minute when he slotted home the winner after rounding off almost the entire Vipers defence.

Who was the coach?

Nigerian Ambrose Duru Chukuma was the man in charge. Like Nikola Kavazovic, the foreign tactician was in the dugout for the side for the first time in an official competitive match.

Nevertheless, Chukuma managed the side until the end of the season and only sacked six matches into the following campaign.

Where did they finish the season?

Vipers finished the season in 3rd position with 51 points, 12 behind eventual winners KCCA.

Overall, the Venoms won 14 matches, drew 9 and lost 7 scoring 36 goals and conceding 22.

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