Asked about what Vipers SC chances were of retaining their StarTimes Uganda Premier League, Vipers’ midfielder Brian Nkuubi had this to say: “In football, you have to keep believing.

“So if you lose hope that means you have given up the chase. You have to keep believing because you never know what will happen in the upcoming games. So we have to keep the fight until the end,” he added.

Those sound like the words of a man who has ‘tasted’ the fruits of victory and just hasn’t had enough of it.

It’s easy to misconstrue the message in the wordings for Nkuubi was so laid back as he answered questions early this week.

But there’s a hard level of conviction which he speaks within his tone, coupled with a very confident body language.

And clearly, you get the message that he would so much to have a repeat of proceedings that happened last May when Vipers were crowned champions for only a third time in history.

Further digging deep into what he said, you get the feel that Nkuubi and Vipers aren’t just about to walk away from this title race. This was on show when queried on how set Vipers are for the game up against Mbarara City.

“According to the situation and condition and the way the players are in the camp, I think we are in good shape; prepared for the game,” Nkuubi noted.

“You know this game is important to us and the team because if we lose, it will mean a lot for the title chase, so, by all means, we have to win this game,” he added.

That perception should not be taken lightly if you bear any sort of allegiance to Mbarara City. Considering that the Ankole Lions had a very tremendous first round of the season.

They marched down to the St Mary’s Stadium and walked away with a humongous point at the time after a one all draw. You would fear for Hillary Mukundani and company that complacency may creep in.

And if it ever does, this Vipers team that looks to be on a mission may easily make cheap fodder of them.