The Nile Special rugby championship playoffs pit holders Stanbic Black Pirates against Rhinos as the Pirates return to their former home aiming to defend their crown. Kyandondo-based Toyota Buffaloes take on Jinja Hippos in another exciting encounter as the battle for this year’s title takes center stage.
Rhinos (6) vs. Stanbic Black Pirates (3):
Besides Makerere Impis in 1996, Pirates is the only other side to have broken the KOBs – Heathens duopoly of the Ugandan league. The Marvin Odong-coached side followed up their 2018 triumph with their second league title last year, and nothing short of a third will be the target this season. With a largely youthful team led by captain Ivan Magomu, an agile backline, and a well-drilled forwards department, make the sea robbers a tough nut to crack.
Despite missing several key players due to national sevens duty, squad depth will be key for the Bweyogerere-based side. They face a Tchumkam Martial-coached side that has gone from a relegation-fighting side in recent years to battle for playoff spots this season. Prop Owen Kinyera has been a cog for the Legends-based side as twins Arnold Ochen and Arthur Opio have marshaled the backline along with experienced center Alvin Lutwama. Half-back Ivan Kirabo has scored 100 points for the side this campaign and will be a man on a mission.
Jinja Hippos (2) vs. Toyota Buffaloes (7):
Winning the 2022 national sevens title remains the pinnacle for the Jinja Hippos, a side that is largely credited for having revived Eastern region rugby following the disintegration of Nile rugby club. Under the leadership of coach Saidi Atibu, the side proved that sport was still very much alive as they defied the clinch the title.
Another upset of that magnitude is never out of reach for the now Edmong Quaresma-led side. Forwards Isaac Rujumba, David Wako, and Fahad Maido boast crucial experience at the top level with a blend of the youthful captain Aziz Bagalana, winger Brighton Bakasa, center Emmanuel Odoi, and fullback Yasin Waswa. The mix within the squad coupled with structured play will see the Hippos look to replicate their 20-16 regular-season home win over the Toyota Buffaloes.
Kyadondo-based Buffaloes have had to endure spells without head coach Charles Onen, who doubles as the Lady Cranes Sevens campaign, and this has seen a decline in their performance from last season. Defensive fortitude and compact play will require the likes of Ronald Kanyanya, Douglas Musoke, Eric Tolit, Aaron Tukei, and Wilfred Seguya to lead the quest for a semifinal slot.
