Stanbic Black Pirates and Kobs face off in top of the table clash

There are a few fixtures in the Uganda rugby calendar that excites both players and supporters more than the clash between the Stanbic Black Pirates and Kobs.

That is what is expected today at the Kings Park Arena in Bweyogerere when the two face off in the first leg of the Nile Special Rugby Premier League.

The mood in both camps is great, jovial, and ready for each other which gives fans a chance to dream of an action-packed game in the top-of-the-table clash.

Pirates with an unbeaten run in six games are top of the log with 28 points, two ahead of Kobs in second position in the 10-team league, and aim to maintain a clean sheet as KOBs look to stop that record and get on top of the standings.

Rhinos players tackle Stanbic Black Pirates player during the Rujumba 7s. Photo by Johnson Were

Last year, Pirates dominated the two sides meet with 17-13 and 13-11 wins in the first and second leg at Legends Kings Park respectively.

Both coaches have predicted a tough game.

Kobs’ tactician Brian Makalama turns the gun to his former employers where he served as a player and coach and is optimistic that today’s game will be tougher on both sides.

“It is going to be a thrilling match, a battle of big boy rugby, but we are going to compete and at the end, rugby will win,”  Makalama said.

His counterpart Bob Musinguzi said, "the mood is great, jovial and the boys are ready to go. The game is expected to be intense and we don't expect anything less. I think the team that is efficient with its set pieces and scoring chances will take the day."

Pirates will miss the services of Haruna Muhammad and Isaac Masa who demolished KOBS with a try each, but Timothy Kisiga, Alex Aturinda, Abubaker Wandera, and team skipper Ivan Magomu will be present.

On the other hand, Makalama has got several experienced players including winger Justin Kimono, scrum half Davis Kiwalabye, Byron Oketayot, Kharim Arinaitwe, Adrian Kasito, Joseph Aredo, and team captain Ian Munyani to build his squad on.

Nile Special Rugby Premier League fixtures

In Bweyogerere-Kings Park, 3pm

Pirates v Kobs

At Kyadondo, 4pm

Heathens v Rams

At Legends, 4pm

Rhinos v Mongers

In Makerere, 4pm

Impis v Buffaloes

In Jinja Abel Daira Stadium

Walukuba v Hippos