The Nile Special Rugby Championship playoffs kicked off this weekend with games across various venues. Title holders Stanbic Black Pirates edged Rhinos 10-7 in a closely contested game at Legends which saw fullback Emmanuel Kwebikanga score a late try for the hosts.
This followed an early touch down by Pirates’ Kieron Erem as Pirates led 10-0 going into the halftime break.
Despite continued pressure from the Tchumkam Martial coached side, the sea robbers showcased defensive strength to establish slim advantage going into the return leg set for this weekend at King’s park arena.
Pirates captain Ivan Magomu reflected on the performance saying, “We started well and dominated much of the game and possession. It’s a new format which allows us to test the depth of our squad and the young players are fitting into the side.”
“Rhinos has improved over the years and credit to them for how they played. We have to polish on some things and kill off the next game,” Magomu added.
Rhinos forward Owen Kinyera believes his side did not capitalize on their opportunities.
“This is not the result that we wanted and we should have dominated the game right from the first half to avoid playing catch up. We are going to their home and we hope to score more points so that we can qualify for the semi finals,” Kinyera stated.
Elsewhere, the Jinja Hippos were 40-21 home winners over Toyota Buffaloes as Platinum Credit Heathens saw off Walukuba Barbarians 25-0 at Kyadondo.
In Entebbe, KCB KOBs overcame home side Plascon Mongers 17-13 with the reverse ties set for this weekend.
