By Marvin Ashaba
Toyota Buffaloes have booked their place in the 2026 Nile Special Rugby Premiership final after defeating a spirited Makerere Impis side in a fiercely contested two-legged semifinal. The Kyadondo-based outfit now awaits the winner between Platinum Credit Heathens and Stanbic Black Pirates in the battle for the league crown.
The Buffaloes displayed the composure and experience that have defined their season, particularly in the first leg at the Makerere Graveyard.
After trailing 8-6 at halftime, they produced a clinical second-half performance led by fly-half Yasin Waiswa, who scored 15 of Buffaloes’ 20 points through three penalties, a conversion, and a crucial try. Former Impis forward Kennedy Muhumuza added a late try to give the visitors a valuable cushion heading into the return leg.
Back at Kyadondo, Buffaloes relied on disciplined defence and smart game management to protect their aggregate advantage. Scrum-half Hussein Shein injected tempo when needed, while utility back Daniels Otim once again impressed with his pace and attacking flair as the hosts sealed their passage to the final.
Despite their elimination, Impis exit with pride after one of the most remarkable campaigns in recent Premiership history. Promoted to the top flight only months ago, the students reached their first-ever semifinal and established themselves as one of the league’s most exciting teams.
Their fairytale run was highlighted by a stunning quarterfinal comeback against 13-time champions KCB Kobs. After losing the first leg 23-12, Impis produced a memorable 30-10 victory at Legends Grounds to overturn the deficit and advance 35-33 on aggregate — one of the greatest playoff comebacks the competition has witnessed.
Captain Darren Aine was central to the historic campaign, finishing the regular season with a record-breaking 131 points — the highest tally ever recorded by a player in a debut Premiership season. Alongside him, centurion and team chairman Pius Mpoza provided leadership and dominance at the breakdown, while Edgar Akimanzi, Ivan Kirabo, and Lamote Maggali delivered key performances throughout the students’ impressive playoff run.
