Namibia hands Uganda first Gold Cup loss
KAMPALA. Africa Champions Namibia showed class and composure as they overcame Uganda 48-24 in the Gold Cup at Legends Rugby Grounds on Saturday.
The visitors suffered an early shock when Asuman Mugerwa touched down after a series of phases with Phillip Wokorach adding the extras, gifting Uganda a 7-0 lead that lasted a couple of minutes.
Namibia bounced back with a converted try before adding a penalty to give them a three point lead at 10-7 but Wokorach would level matters for Uganda with a penalty. With Uganda gaining confidence, Namibia turned on their running game, orchestrating two quick tries to silence the home crowd.
Rugby fans cheering players during the Africa Gold Cup game between Uganda and Namibia at Legends Rugby Club, Lugogo in Kampala. Despite cheers from these fervent fans, Uganda lost to Namibia. Photo by Ismail Kezaala
The first half would end 10-22 to Namibia after Uganda had looked average in the first fourty, kicking aimlessly, giving the ball away as the Namibians ran back straight back at them without answers.
The second half had Uganda looking for a better display but Namibia started the better side once again with a five pointer to extend their lead to 10-27, getting the much desired bonus point away from home.
With the bonus point bagged, Namibia got into full flight with some beautiful offloading rugby to make it 34-10 with a fifth try, prompting a response from debutant Eric Mula to add a try for Uganda, their first points since the first half, Mula`s try was followed by some magic as Ivan Magomu graciously released Wokorach for a try.
The guest of honor, Speaker Rebecca Kadaga disembarks from a chopper after arriving for the Africa Gold Cup game between Uganda and Namibia at Legends Rugby Club, Lugogo. Photo by Ismail Kezaala
At this point Uganda looked on their way back into the game with only 10 points as the difference but Namibia added two more tries to take Uganda out of the equation with a 48-24 win.
Veteran hooker Alex Mubiru was pleased with the performance but not the result as he heaped praises on the young Ugandan side.
“ It’s a young side that is immensely growing by the day. We gave them a run but they were a better side at the end of the year, “he said.
Uganda now has to regroup for Zimbabwe which visits in two weeks` time.
