KOBS stage dramatic comeback to defeat Jinja Hippos in semifinal thriller
The Hippos dominated the opening exchanges, establishing an early 8-0 lead through Bruno Kisule's try and Yassin Wasswa's penalty.
File photo
By Faith Kiai
Journalists @New Vision
Nile Special Rugby Premiership
Results
Hippos 22 KOBs 25
KCB KOBS mounted an impressive second-half comeback to overcome Jinja Hippos 25-22 in a tightly contested Nile Special Rugby Premiership semifinal clash.
The Hippos dominated the opening exchanges, establishing an early 8-0 lead through Bruno Kisule's try and Yassin Wasswa's penalty. Wasswa added two more penalties before halftime, while Josiah Ssempeke's solitary penalty kept KOBS within touching distance at 14-3.
The match turned after the break when former Hippos player Andrew Odhiambo crossed for KOBS' first try, narrowing the gap to 14-10 following Ssempeke's conversion. Despite John Echeru extending Jinja's lead with another try (19-10), KOBS remained composed. Ssempeke's accurate penalty kicking kept the visitors in contention at 19-13.
Odhiambo's second try brought KOBS within one point before Wasswa's crucial drop goal appeared to secure victory for the hosts at 22-18. However, KOBS' relentless determination paid off in the final moments as Mark Osuna landed the decisive penalty, with Ssempeke's conversion completing the remarkable turnaround.
The hard-fought victory gives KOBS a valuable three-point advantage heading into next week's second leg at Legends Rugby Ground, setting the stage for an enthralling conclusion to this semifinal encounter.