Despite the challenging weather conditions, die-hard fans of Jinja Hippos Rugby Club stood unwavering as they gathered at Dam Waters on Saturday to witness their team’s battle against KOBs in the inaugural round of the 2024 Nile Special Rugby Championship.
Rain poured down relentlessly, accompanied by strong winds and bitter cold from the nearby Nile, but the devoted Hippos supporters remained undeterred, chanting and cheering throughout the match.
The contest began with KOBs seizing an early lead, capitalizing on an infringement to secure three points. However, the resilient Hippos swiftly countered, with Ayman Bagalana scoring a try as the halftime whistle approached, bringing the score to a tense 5-3 in favor of the hosts.
The momentum shifted decisively in the second half as Jinja Hippos unleashed a flurry of attacks, with Julius Opio and Paul Siringiti each crossing the try line in quick succession. Siringiti’s opportunistic play, snatching the ball from the KOBs’ grasp, left the visitors stunned and trailing.
Although KOBs managed to claw back with a try of their own, Yasin Wasswa extended the Hippos’ lead with a successful penalty kick, widening the gap to 18-10.
In a last-ditch effort, KOBs staged a spirited comeback, securing a late try to narrow the deficit to 18-15. However, it was too little, too late, as the final whistle sounded, sealing a hard-fought victory for Jinja Hippos.
Buoyed by their victory over a formidable opponent, Jinja Hippos now set their sights on their next challenge: a showdown against Walukuba Barbarians, following their narrow 17-13 defeat to the newly promoted Eagles Rugby Club.
