This season, however, Lumala has shown glimpses of his past brilliance, featuring in all four of Vipers' games in the league.
In his second season at Vipers SC having joined at the start of last campaign, winger Abdu Lumala has yet to showcase his known potential fully.
Disturbed by injuries and fitness concerns last season, the former Pyramids FC attacker was limited to just a handful of league appearances as they clinched the championship.
This season, however, Lumala has shown glimpses of his past brilliance, featuring in all four of Vipers' games in the league.
Lumala has thus asserted that he will wholly continue receiving his opportunities with open hands every moment he gets.
"I always wait for the coach's decision, and once I'm given the opportunity, I have to show my abilities," he told the club media.
"No pressure at all because we're only focusing on us; we know how good we're and can be. We just have to keep giving our best."
18:29 - 26.10.2023
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The result ensured that the thirteen-time Uganda Premier League champions languish at the base and apparently have a worse record than strugglers Arua Hill SC (15th).
Meanwhile, Vipers have not particularly had a blistering start to the season, as they have only won two of the opening four games, with the rest being stalemates.
"We are not afraid of anyone whether they're winning week in week out, we just have to focus on ourselves. The journey is still long," noted Lumala.
The Venoms take on a tricky opponent in Soltilo Bright Stars FC on Friday at Kavumba Recreation Center, but Lumala is certainly not worried.
"We're playing a good opponent; they love to play, but we just have to get there with confidence that we're a big team."
08:58 - 23.10.2023
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Meanwhile, Byaruhanga and his side had last Monday beaten Colorado Rapids 2 to clinch the Western Conference championship.
"We're Vipers, and when we go there, they know we're coming. So, we have to be ready because we're professionals."
While Vipers hold the lion's share of victories in this fixture, games between the two are always hugely tight and contested.
16:39 - 26.10.2023
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Magera took over from Portuguese tactician Sergio Traguil, who was sacked by the club following a slow start to the league, as they have lost each of their four games this season.
Meanwhile, since 2013, Vipers have beaten Bright Stars ten times in the league, drawn eight and lost just once.