Victoria University triumphs in AUUS Rugby 7s opener

Daniels Otim and Calvin Gizamba were the heroes as Victoria University defeated Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) to claim victory in the opening leg of the AUUS Rugby 7s circuit held at Makerere on Sunday.

Otim and Gizamba each scored tries to secure a 15–5 win in the final, giving Victoria University a strong start to the tournament.

The victory boosted the confidence of head coach Ivan Makmot, who believes his team is well-positioned not only to win the second leg but also to defend the overall title they claimed last year.

Speaking to Vision Sport after the win at the Graveyard Ground, Makmot expressed optimism about the team’s prospects. “I’m impressed with the competition this year. There are more teams, and the level of play is higher than in the previous tournament,” he said.

AUUS president George Wagogo (C) hands over the trophy to Victoria University team captain Calvin Gizamba at Makerere University. Looking on (R) is AUUS secretary Patrick Ssebuliba, URU Rugby 7s chairman Desire Mugumisa and age grade rugby manager Dorothy Nekesa. PHOTO: Johnson Were

“I’m happy the boys won the circuit. This has given us the momentum to push for the next leg and ultimately defend our title,” he added.

To clinch the Makerere Circuit title, Victoria University overcame UMU in a tightly contested final. On their way to the final, Victoria defeated hosts Makerere University 14–0, while UMU cruised past Uganda Christian University with a 28–0 win.

This year’s university tournament attracted 11 institutions, including Kabale University, Kampala International University, Mutesa Royal University, Makerere University, Kyambogo University, and the International University of East Africa.

University Rugby 7s Circuit results

Final:

Victoria 15 UMU 5

Semifinal

Victoria 14 Makerere 0

Uganda Martyrs 28 UCU 0