Rugby: Heathens take on table-topping Pirates

KAMPALA.

Hima Cement Heathens started their Nile Special Rugby Premiership campaign with a win away in Jinja before three consecutive losses to Buffaloes, Rhinos and today’s opponents Buzz Pirates.
That string of reverses turned their season for worse and left them in a spot of bother.
The champions, however, needed a reaction and got it in a 23-18 win over Betway Kobs six weeks ago. The win got them clicking and it’s been six straight wins that have now catapulted the side to within six points of leaders Pirates.
Heathens welcome the sea robbers desperate for a win in the hope of making a statement of intent.
“We have never been out of the title race even when things seemed not to be going on well,” Heathens captain Michael Wokorach told SCORE.
“We know how big a win it will be if we get it. We have prepared for the game well because it has a lot at stake,” added the center.
If Heathens win, they could move within a point or two of Pirates; and that gifts Kobs with a chance to return to the summit if they beat Jinja Hippos. Pirates come into the game with a big boost after their captain Ivan Magomu shook off an elbow injury although it remains the coach’s decision to either play him or hand William Nkore the number 10 shirt.
Elsewhere Plascon Mongers, fresh from their adrenaline-charged 11-10 win at Toyota Buffaloes, host Warriors in Entebbe hoping to start the second round with back-to-back wins.
Rams with a sole win this campaign take the fight to Buffaloes at Kyadondo with a little faith of managing a victoruy considering their hapless form.
Third-placed Rimula Rhinos have Makerere University side, Impis, as opponents and Brian Makalama’s charges are favourite to emerge triumphant.