Rivals plot to dethrone Hima Heathens

KAMPALA. Hima Cement Heathens can be forgiven for securing a special spot for the Uganda Cup in their trophy cabinet.
They have won it 11 times with the last four coming in as many years.
The Mohammed Athiyo-coached side might have made winning the Uganda Cup a routine but their rivals, too, want to enjoy a fair share of Cup glory when the tourney kicks off at eight different venues this afternoon.
At least Athiyo is aware of the rivals’ plot. “We want to win the fifth in a row but all the other teams are looking forward to ruining our streak. But we are ready to push through in order to win the Cup,” Athiyo told SCORE earlier in the week.
Last year’s losing finalists, Buzz Black Pirates are itching to go a step further this year after falling 20-17 on the last hurdle against Heathens last year.
“Since it’s knock out, we have to play each game like a final. Last year we were unlucky not to win it but we can take it this time because we are stronger and everyone should be scared of playing us,” said Pirates captain Ivan Magomu (pic inset), who replaces injured Marvin Odongo.
Rimula Rhinos were primed to win silverware last season but had nothing to show in the end. Their coach Brian Makalama now wants a change in the fortunes. “We are in the competition because we want to win it. We have to start with the first game. We have been working on our weaknesses to get better,” he said.
Six-time winners Betway Kobs are also in the fray to win the Cup competition they last won in 2012 with some reinforcements. Front row Timothy Kabonero returns with Mike Opio joining from Impis in an effort to boost the pack, a department in which they have laboured to match their rivals.

UGANDA CUP fixtures

Walukuba vs. Heathens 4pm
Gulu vs. Warriors 4pm
Kyambogo vs. Buffaloes 4pm
Stallions vs. Mongers 4pm
Rams vs. Pirates 4pm
Hippos vs. Impis 4pm
Mbale vs. Kobs 4pm
UCU vs. Rhinos 4pm