Kobs pip naive Heathens to defend Uganda Cup title
Betway Kobs players and wellwishers celebrate after beating Heathens to the Uganda Cup. PHOTO by JOHN BATANUDDE
Betway Kobs scored and converted a try six minutes after the hooter had gone off to beat Hima Heathens 14-15, winning their eighth Uganda Cup at Kings Park Arena, Bweyogere on Saturday.
Heathens showed up with a forwards game as expected while Kobs decided to run the ball and it was evident in how both scored their opening tries. Mike Otto got Heathens’ try off a maul and Justin Kimono got over for Kobs after a well worked line move.
At 5-5 , the boots did the talking with Joseph Oyet nailing two penalties and a drop goal for Heathens as Ivan Kirabo pulled back a penalty. The exchange left Heathens 14-8 up all the to the hooter on a third attempt of a quick start managed to force a try from Robert Aziku.
The lock’s try cut the six point margin to one with a conversion to come. Kirabo who had missed two kicks at goal stepped up by splitting the uprights to break Heathens’ hearts.
“We had five minutes to go but elected to keep scratching until it paid off. It was a gamble but we had to risk it all despite a small debate on whether to take the three,” said Kobs captain Brian Asaba.
Heathens could still be getting to terms with how they threw it away. They were the better side for most of the game and led to the death. All they had to do was defend with discipline but pressure got to them, giving away multiple penalties that also left them a man down with replacememt backrow Arthur Mukama shown yellow.
“ It’s yet to sink in,” said Heathens captain Charles Uhuru. “ I think we thought we had got the job done but they were not going down without a fight. Our concetration levels dipped, he added.
Heathens coach Mohammed Athiyo was almost speechless but congratulated Kobs on their title .The two sides also face off in a rare Friday night league opener at Kyadondo a fortnight from now.
