KYADONDO: The Stanbic Pirates secured a crucial victory over fierce rivals, Heathens at Kyadondo Rugby Ground in the first leg of the rugby league championship semi-finals, leaving the hosts with a 12-point deficit to make up during next weekend’s return fixture.
Pirates opened the scoring through Eric Mulamula, before William Nkore added a penalty to extend the visitors’ advantage. The first half was highlighted by an outstanding defensive effort from Timothy Kisiga, who denied the Heathens a try with a crucial last-ditch block.
The Heathens started the second half positively, with Mathew Musasizi converting a penalty to reduce the deficit and to 3-8. Pirates then made a key substitution, introducing Haruna Muhammad to replace William Nkore.
Soon after, a well-worked move resulted in a try, followed by a successful conversion by Timothy Kisiga, who had recently switched to the number 10 jersey. The conversion stretched the Pirates lead to 15-3.
In response, Coach Mervin strengthened his defensive setup by replacing Muhumuza with Samuel Lubwama.
Speaking after the match, Pirates captain Isaac Massanganzira described the encounter as merely a preview of the intense battle expected in the second leg at Kings Park Arena in Bweyogerere.
The return leg is scheduled for next Saturday and will begin with a memorial walk in honour of the slain Pirates player, Sydney Gongodyo. The walk will start at TMT Shopping Mall, where the rugby star was tragically killed before concluding at the Kings Park Arena.
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