Virtual title decider

Wokorach and Asaba (R) will lead their sides out of the Legends dugout today aiming for a decisive victory. PHOTOS BY EDDIE CHICCO

What you need to know:

Rugby. Heathens hosts Kobs in the biggest derby of Ugandan rugby with the ultimate prize for the victor being one hand on the Nile Special Rugby Premiership title.

KAMPALA. At some stage in the early rounds of the Nile Special Rugby Premiership, Betway Kobs led standings before Hima Heathens leapfrogged them with a 15-12 triumph at Kyadondo RFC.

The two exchanged spots once again last week despite having the same points, 55, but separated by a 193-point difference in favour of Kobs. The two meet today in one of the most important games of the campaign as the winner would have the title in sight. Heathens captain Michael Wokorach and his teammates are even taking it as a Cup final.

“The game against Kobs is a title decider, we shall take it as a Cup final since it will determine our destiny. Whoever wins will have a higher chance of taking the title,” he told SCORE. His Kobs counterpart Brian Asaba’s school of thought is no different. “It’s arguably the game everyone has been waiting for. Winner of this game gets one hand onto the trophy,” said Asaba.

One can argue that Kobs need the win more, they find themselves in the same situation Pirates were last week. Nothing less than a win can keep them in the mix, a loss would take their title aspirations out of their own hands.

Game of wits
A win is their only way out considering they still have to host Pirates in a fortnight, the former would love to derail Kobs when they pay a visit.

In the first leg, Kobs led 12-0 at the breather as Heathens operated in sixes and sevens and Kobs looked destined for another win before tables turned in the second half.

Heathens responded with 15 points to win the tie and both sides picked lessons.

Game of two halves
While Kobs were reminded that rugby is a game of two halves, Heathens are now aware of the importance of a good start and defence. “Definitely, that rugby is a game of two halves,” answered Asaba when asked if Kobs had learnt anything from the first leg howler.

“Yes we picked a lot of lessons and we have since worked on them, first we need to fire up from the beginning and not wait to fight for a comeback.
Secondly our defence has to be tight,” replied Wokorach when asked the same question.