Pirates hold nerve to beat KOBs in season opener

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The Stanbic Black Pirates made a winning start to the 2026 Nile Special Rugby Premiership, holding off a late surge from KCB KOBs to claim a tense 26–24 victory at Kings Park Arena in Bweyogerere on Saturday.

Pirates settled quickly and dominated the opening exchanges, racing into an early lead through first-half tries from Frank Kidega, Haruna Muhammad and Eliphaz Emong. KOBs responded with a try from Jaffa Abdallah, but Pirates still carried a commanding 21–7 advantage into the break.

KOBs showed renewed urgency after halftime, with Rasul Abiriga cutting the deficit through a penalty to make it 21–10. Pirates briefly reasserted control as their pack dominated proceedings, and Desire Ayera crossed to stretch the lead to 26–10.

Despite the setback, KOBs refused to fade and mounted a strong late challenge. Tries from Mike Otto and Faraj Odugo reduced the margin and set up a tense finish, but time ran out before they could complete the comeback.

Pirates coach Marvin Odongo praised both teams after the match.

“I am happy for the win, but also for the KOBs boys for giving us a really good encounter. Games against KOBs are always tough, and although we made errors, we are grateful for the result,” he said.

KOBs coach Brian Makalama remained encouraged despite the defeat, saying his side showed character and would improve as the season progresses.

“It is first game jitters and people finding themselves and their feet. It is something we are going to build and improve much better in the second game,” explained Makalama.

The Stanbic Black Pirates players joined their Fan Aston to celebrate his birthday. (Photo by Johnson Were)

Elsewhere, Impis defeated Warriors 44–15, Heathens beat Kakira Simbas 34–13, Mongers edged Walukuba Barbarians 28–27, Sharks defeated Rhinos 29–10, and Toyota Buffaloes overcame the Hippos.

Earlier, Victoria Sharks had beaten Rhinos 29–10, while Buffaloes defeated Hippos 40–17.