DANITO NSUBUGA
Vipers will have to more than triple their efforts if they are overturn the 1-0 deficit against Al Hilal in Omdurman when they meet again in a weekend’s time.
Balet Walid’s 27th minute strike handed the visitors a much deserved lead and consequently sealed all three points for Al Hilal.
Vipers were presented with most genuine chance of getting ahead but Jamil Kaliisa’s shot inside the area got off the mark.
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Minutes later, Al Hilal captain Masri Eldin El Shagai fumbled with the ball in the penalty area and it ended up in his arms but the referee waved play on.
The ineffective Milton Kalisa was withdrawn before the end of first half being replaced by Ibrahim Oriti.
Kajoba rang more changes by introducing on David Bagoole and Dan Serunkuuma for Jamil Kaliisa and Abraham Ndugwa respectively.
The introduction of Paul Mucurezi moments later added more impetus to Vipers’ attacks, with the former KCCA man delivering relentless crosses into the Hilal area.
With the clock ticking down, Mucurezi swung in a trademark cross that found Mzee unmarked in the area but the diminutive striker failed to connect with the ball. Ibrahim Oriti had a chance to redeem his striker but his shot went way off with the keeper beaten .
Vipers will meet Al Hilal in Omdurman in a weekend’s time for the return leg.
