Vipers Brazilian tactician Leonard Martins Neiva has praised his players after their 2-1 win over Gaddafi in their opening League game held on Sunday in Jinja.

The Venoms got off their title defence campaign with victory thanks to goals from Milton Karisa and Mohamed Salem Ekbad.

While addressing the press after the game, Neiva first admitted that it wasn’t easy playing away from home in the opener.

“Its not easy playing away from home since Gaddafi also has good players. Yes we played well in the first half and even the second half but the most important thing is to get the three points and I’m happy we got the win,” he said.

It was a good start for Vipers, more so at an enemy territory in the opener.

Karisa got their first in the 27th before Salem doubled the lead before half time to put his side in a comfortable lead.

Despite going two goals ahead, Vipers struggled in the second half and even conceded a penalty that was converted by Gaddafi Benson Muhindo.

But they kept on fighting till the end, something Nevia that impressed the Brazilian tactician.

“The second half wasn’t that good but my players were resilient, I trust my players all the way from training and I’m happy for the three points.”

Victory saw Vipers get off a Winning in a season they are seeking for a third consecutive League title.

And Neiva, given the nature of his job at Kitende, he will be hoping that his side can keep the momentum to avoid pressure from his top bosses at the Kitende based club.