Despite a valiant effort, Jinja Hippos succumbed to a narrow 19-14 defeat at the hands of Stanbic Black Pirates in a hard-fought battle on Saturday evening.
The match started with promise for the Hippos as they capitalized on an early penalty, taking advantage of Haruna Mubiru’s absence due to a temporary disciplinary action.
However, Pirates quickly turned the tide, rallying after being reduced to 14 men. They responded with two well-taken penalties by Frederick Mulindwa and were further bolstered by a penalty try, resulting in a 13-07 lead for the hosts at halftime, with Shawn Mubiru sin-binned.
In the second half, Mulindwa extended Pirates’ lead with another penalty, putting them ahead 16-07. Despite the Hippos’ forwards, led by James Okello and Eliphaz Emong, mounting a fierce offensive, it was Andrew Odhiambo who managed to breach Pirates’ defense, narrowing the deficit to 16-14 with a converted try.
However, injuries and lapses in decision-making plagued the Hippos in the latter stages of the match, allowing Pirates to capitalize on their vulnerabilities. Despite Nathan Bwambale’s relentless efforts to rally the Hippos, Pirates sealed the victory with a late penalty from Mulindwa, securing a 19-14 win.
In other matches, Rhinos secured a 20-13 victory over Toyota Buffaloes, while Platinum Credit Heathens reclaimed the top spot with a bonus-point 36-17 win against Plascon Mongers. KCB KOBs edged Impis 24-13, Walukuba Barbarians defeated Lifeguard Rams 23-07, and Warriors emerged victorious with a 32-13 win over Kampani’s Eagles.
