Pirates stand in Heathens' way to 10th league title

By Douglas Mazune

Nile Special Rugby League:

Heathens v Pirates 5pm (At Kyadondo Club)

Kobs v Mongers 5pm (At Kampala Club)

Nile v Buffaloes 4.30pm (In Jinja)

Impis v Rhino 5pm (At Makerere)

G4S Pirates could be battling for a descent finishing position on the Nile Special Rugby Premier League table but they could determine who wins the 2012 trophy.

Pirates suffered a 13-11 defeat to Kobs last week but they could spoil reigning champions MTN Heathens 10th title aspiration at Kyadondo and consequently brighten table leaders Uganda telecom Kobs’ chances.

With Heathens three points behind Kobs, coach Brian Tabaruka’s side cannot afford to slip up when they face off with Pirates on Saturday.

Tabaruka watched Pirates give Kobs a run for their money at Kampala Club last week and expects them to put up a fight at Kyadondo.

“Pirates are a much a better side than they were in the first round. They lost to Kobs because of a few errors. We are taking this game like a final.

It’s very important and we can’t afford to slip up,” Tabaruka stated.

Tabaruka pointed that Heathens, coming off a 41-6 victory over Mongers last week, are in very good shape.

Pirates still have fans and sponsors to please let alone their ‘injured’ pride to salvage.

A heavy pack, a praiseworthy backline and reasonable experience create a perfect balance for coach Godwin Kayange’s Pirates side.