The Uganda Rugby Cranes have set their sights on overcoming the Kenya Simbas in the second leg of the 2024 Elgon Cup.
After a close 27-25 loss in Nairobi, Uganda will host Kenya this Saturday, November 16, at King’s Park Arena in Bweyogerere, aiming to overturn the two-point deficit, and win their first Elgon Cup since 2015.
The clash in Uganda, referred to as the Victoria Cup, will be broadcast live on NBS Sport, and will kickoff at 4 pm.
During a press conference launching the return leg of the tie, captain Byron Oketayot expressed confidence, noting that the team learned from the Nairobi setback and is now fully prepared to overcome Kenya on home turf.
“It didn’t go the way we wanted it, but we managed to keep fighting. This Saturday, I believe the boys are ready to host and win the Elgon Cup this year,” Oketayot said.
Uganda has historically struggled in the Elgon Cup, with Kenya winning 13 titles compared to Uganda’s three.
However, Oketayot is optimistic that his team can break the eight-year drought, and clinch their fourth title. .
“We last won the Elgon Cup in 2015, but I’ll assure you that this will be the fourth time for Uganda to win,” he declared.
Vice-captain Conrad Wanyama echoed Oketayot’s sentiments, downplaying Kenya’s physical advantage and emphasizing Uganda’s skill and determination.
“Yes, they’re big, but we are big in the head. We’re intelligent fellows and quite skillful. I think we’re the most skilled in East Africa,” he remarked, adding that Uganda’s speed and hunger to win would be key to securing victory.
“The crop of players we have right now is hungry to win and look out for each other. That’s why our performances have improved.”
Wanyama also views this match as a valuable opportunity to prepare for next year’s Rugby Africa Cup, where Uganda will face Kenya in the group stages.
“It’s a very good opportunity for us. We shall use the game to test our defense, attack, and set pieces and to learn our strengths and weaknesses ahead of the tournament,” he said.
Rugby Cranes team manager Andrew Ikopit shared his optimism, affirming the team’s readiness.
“We’re ready for the challenge this weekend. We fell short last weekend, but the boys are now in high spirits and I’m very sure they are going to win,” he stated.
Uganda Rugby Union CEO Isaac Lutwama called on fans to show their support at Kings Park Arena.
“The first leg last weekend in Nairobi didn’t go in our favour, but the home support will be a great opportunity to come back and win the Elgon Cup,” he said, urging Ugandans to attend the match in large numbers.
Tickets for the match are priced at UGX 20,000 for ordinary and UGX 50,000 for VIP.
The Kenya Simbas will arrive in the country tomorrow morning (Wednesday) to finalise preparations for Saturday’s decisive showdown.
