John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda has spoken with confidence following his appointment to lead the first team at Vipers following the sacking of Denis Lavagne.

The ex-Wakiso Giants coach leads the Venoms for the second stint after he did so back in the 2024/25 season alongside Fred Muhumuuza and won a historic double.

Speaking to the club website, Ayala described the responsibility as an honour stating that he understands all it needs to win trophies at Kitende.

“Having the responsibility to lead Vipers SC is an honour,” Ayala stated.

“I know what it takes to succeed here; my focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club, which we know that this group is more than capable of producing.”

With a squad he already knows intimately, the new gaffer is wasting no time looking backward.

“I have worked with a number of the players already and I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here. There is still a lot to fight for this season, we are ready to pull everyone together and give the fans the performances that their loyal support deserves.”

With the board offering full backing and the dressing room already familiar with his methods, Ayala’s immediate mandate will be to stabilize the technical bench and ensure the Venoms remain ruthless in their pursuit of silverware this season.

His first task is a trip to Kamwenge to face Mbarara City on Wednesday October 28 and then host URA on Saturday 31 at Kitende.

Vipers are 6^th with 11 points from six matches played and have a game in hand over teams ahead.