Ochan controversial send off aids Vipers come back over Police

David GOMBE 

Vipers SC came from 2-1 down to defeat 10 man Police FC 3-2 in a controversial contest at St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende.

Police FC Custodian Derrick Ochan who was facing his former paymasters was controversially shown red by referee George Olemu for handling the ball outside the box but replays showed it was a wrong call from the officials.

Before the unclear circumstances, Ibrahim Oriti had fired the hosts into the lead in the 21st minute but Police FC levelled matters through Eric Ssenjobe two minutes later.

The Cops were 2-1 up in the 37th minute courtesy of a cool finish from Brian Muluuli Mayanja who was netting his third goal in Police FC colours.

Brian Mayanja celebrates his third goal in Police FC colours

This was also his second against Vipers at St. Mary’s Stadium Kitende this campaign with the other coming during his time at Kitara.

With sending off of Ochan, Muwadda Mawejje was sacrificed for the introduction of goalkeeper Tom Ikarah.

Police FC patron Asan Kasingye dramatically came out to protest the referee’s decision which proved to be the match deciding moment.

With a man less, Police FC went into halftime break leading 2-1.

Two minutes after the recess, Oriti completed his brace with a perfect header off a Paul Mucureezi free kick to restore parity for the hosts.

In form Vipers SC striker Yunus Sentamu squandered a decent chance with only substitute goalkeeper Thomas Ikarah to beat. The latter blasted over the bar.

With the clock ticking, Fred Kajoba introduced on Congolese striker Cesear Manzoki for Muhammad Shaban.

The change paid off with Manzoki firing past Ikarah the winner off a Paul Willa assist for his second of the season.

Ceaser Manzoki scored the winning goal for Vipers

Victory sees Vipers leapfrog Police FC at the summit with 18 points in 8 game while Police who suffered their first defeat of the campaign drop to second and two points adrift of the Venoms.

Vipers SC will next host BUL FC on Tuesday 23rd February while Police FC will welcome Onduparaka on the following day.