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KCB Kobs and Stanbic Black Pirates edge tight battles in the first legs of intense, hard-fought Rugby Premiership semifinals.
Friday afternoon was a tense, dramatic affair as the Uganda Rugby Premiership semifinals kicked off with two heavyweight clashes.
At the Dam Waters, KCB Kobs mounted an impressive comeback to defeat the Jinja Hippos 25-22, while Stanbic Black Pirates edged Platinum Credit Heathens 17-12 in a gritty encounter.
Saturday's match saw Kobs visit a fortress that had been nearly impregnable for two years.
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Hippos, boasting an intimidating home record, started strongly, controlling possession and territory through a dominant first half.
Their pack, which has been a source of pride and endless debate among fans, exerted its power early, earning penalties that were neatly converted into points. However, Kobs refused to be buried.
Despite trailing for the majority of the game, Kobs remained composed. Their experience shone through when it mattered most.
Led by the brilliant Andrew Odhiambo — later named the Unmatched Player of the Match — the visitors found another gear in the final quarter.
Clever tactical kicking, swift ball movement, and dogged forward play allowed them to claw back into the match.
A crucial late try and a nerveless conversion secured a 25-22 victory, handing Kobs a slender but vital lead heading into the second leg at Legends Rugby Grounds.
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Meanwhile, on Friday at Kyadondo, it was another bruising battle as Platinum Credit Heathens hosted Stanbic Black Pirates.
Although Heathens dominated possession at times, they struggled to convert pressure into points, often undone by Pirates’ aggressive defense and turnover work.
Pirates’ ability to strike clinically was the difference. Two well-worked tries and a penalty were enough to see them past a Heathens side that, despite their best efforts, will rue missed opportunities.
The 17-12 win gives Pirates a five-point cushion as the semifinals head to Kings Park next week.
Both semifinals are finely poised. With the second legs looming large, nothing is guaranteed.
Kobs and Pirates have seized the early advantage, but Hippos and Heathens — both proud, battle-hardened teams — will be desperate to respond.
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