The Stanbic Pirates secured a crucial victory over fierce rivals, Heathens at Kyadondo Rugby Ground in the first leg of the rugby league championship semi-finals, leaving the hosts with a 12-point deficit to make up during next weekend’s return fixture.
Pirates opened the scoring through Eric Mulamula, before William Nkore added a penalty to extend the visitors’ advantage. The first half was highlighted by an outstanding defensive effort from Timothy Kisiga, who denied the Heathens a try with a crucial last-ditch block.
The Heathens started the second half positively, with Mathew Musasizi converting a penalty to reduce the deficit and to 3-8. Pirates then made a key substitution, introducing Haruna Muhammad to replace William Nkore.
Soon after, a well-worked move resulted in a try, followed by a successful conversion by Timothy Kisiga, who had recently switched to the number 10 jersey. The conversion stretched the Pirates lead to 15-3.
In response, Coach Mervin strengthened his defensive setup by replacing Muhumuza with Samuel Lubwama.
Speaking after the match, Pirates captain Isaac Massanganzira described the encounter as merely a preview of the intense battle expected in the second leg at Kings Park Arena in Bweyogerere.
