Heathens won't relax in Cup duel

By Johnson Were

Today: Nile Special Uganda Cup

Boks v Heathens

Tomorrow

M. Elephants v Warriors

S. Mongers v G. Elephants

T. Buffaloes v UCU

Rhinos v Nile

Rams v DMark Kobs

Lira Bulls v Xfm Impis

Heathens rugby club will not take the opposition for granted in a bid to win the Nile Special Uganda Cup.

Team coach Brian Tabaruka said he will field the best players available against Boks in Kampala today, adding that the previous result has no bearing on the game. But Tabaruka’s charges, who overwhelmed the less rated Mbale Elephants 102-0 last weekend, are favourites to triumph today.

The coach said they will handle Boks with respect. “I know Boks are DMark Kobs’ second side and I do not want to get shocked,” Tabaruka stated in an interview yesterday. “I will field the best players available for the job.” Tabaruka will miss some players due to injuries sustained during national team assignments.

Lock Grace Lubega will replace Romano Ogwal, hooker Paul Sserunjogi will take over from Alex Mubiru, Prop Preston Tibashoboka takes Asuman Mugerwa’s place while winger Allan Otim is Bishop Onen’s replacement. Boks will have to step up their game following the 30-0 defeat at the hands of Mutoni Warriors last weekend.

There will also be matches in Lira, Gulu, Mbale, Makerere, and Entebbe tomorrow. There are 16 clubs in the Uganda Cup.

Under a new Uganda Rugby Union format, the top six clubs will play in what will be called the premier league next season. The second lot of six clubs will compete in the champions trophy. The last four teams will play in the nationwide league.