Pirates survive KCB to advance to Enterprise Cup semis

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Enterprise Cup

Heathens 19 Kabras 61

Black Pirates 11 KCB Rugby 10

Nondescripts 29 KCB KOBs 13

Oilers 59 Toyota Buffaloes 15

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Pirates have raised Uganda’s flag high as they remain the sole survivors in the Enterprise Cup after a lung-bursting 11-10 victory over Kenya’s KCB Rugby at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku.

The Ugandan league champions stepped up and delivered a pragmatic win built on a handful of decisive moments.

Pirates played with intent from the start and were rewarded with victory for a disciplined performance. Didi Ruhweza was instrumental in the win, strengthening the Pirates pack, while Conrad Wanyama was rightly named man of the match for his tenacious display as the Ugandan side secured a famous result.

“According to me, I believe our performance was okay, but for the coaches, Monday is going to be a tough day at the office because we lost a couple of opportunities, we could have closed out really quick,” stated Ruhweza.

Heathens V Kabras. (Photo by Johnson Were)

He, alongside Ariho Muhumuza and Nathan Bwambale, shouldered much of the responsibility in the front row, with his experience proving valuable.

“Today’s session was an eye-opener. At least we are in the top four in the region, but the aim is to be the best in the region. It is going to take a lot of dedication, discipline and wanting it,” explained Ruhweza.

While Pirates celebrated with their fans, the same could not be said for Heathens, who were heavily beaten 61-19 by reigning Kenya Cup champions Kabras Sugar. Although Heathens would have wanted to impress, they fell short in both execution and quality.

“We believe we could have done better throughout that game, but they are a better opponent. We just have to work harder and get back to winning ways. We missed a couple of chances that we could have converted on both sides,” stated Heathens captain Malcolm Okello.

Heathens concede a try to Kabras of Kenya during Saturday's encounter at Wankulukuku. (Photo by Johnson Were)

The scoreline was disappointing for Heathens, although facing the Kenya Cup champions was always going to be a tough task.

The other Ugandan sides that played in Kenya also struggled, with KCB KOBs losing 29-13 to Nondescripts, while Toyota Buffaloes suffered a heavy 59-15 defeat to the Oilers.

The semi-finals are now set, with Pirates taking on Nondescripts, while Menengai Oilers will face Kabras in two weeks.