The last time Black Pearls had lost a rugby premiership/league match was four years ago in the 2021 season. Black Pearls were on a four-year unbeaten run of thirty-five wins from thirty-five matches.
But on Saturday evening, during the final round of the 2025 Uganda Women’s Rugby Premiership at Kyadondo, in their thirty-sixth match, it ended.
Thunderbirds— the last team to beat Black Pearls— staged a remarkable performance to win by 24-10 (halftime 12-05) in front of their faithful fans at home.
Thunderbirds’ tries were scored by Sarah Nakafeero, Asha Nakityo, Samiya Ayikoru (player of the match) and Janat Nandudu. Nandudu kicked two conversions.
Black Pearls fought back valiantly with tries from Grace Auma and Lydia Namabiro.
But for the first time in ages, Black Pearls were not invincible and struggled with mistakes of their own. This, coupled with Thunderbirds’ strong start and well-plotted strategy, swung the result in the hosts ‘ favour.
Although the victory was not enough for them to win the title, Thunderbirds’ players wore smiles on their faces after the full-time whistle.
In other results on the day, Avengers beat Panthers by 72-17 while Ewes and She Wolves settled for a fifteen-all draw.
Full Round Fourteen Results:
• Avengers 72-17 Panthers
• Ewes 15-15 She Wolves
• Thunderbirds 24-10 Black Pearls
Black Pearls finished the season on top of the table with fifty-five points and were crowned champions for the fourth straight year.
Thunderbirds were one point behind in second place, followed by Avengers, Ewes, She Wolves, Nile Rapids and Panthers.
There will be no relegation or promotion, so all teams will feature in the top flight next season.
