Musinguzi hints ‘Women’s Day’ memories count
Fallen giants. Kobs’ captain Justin Kimono consoles Pius Ogena (down) , with team captain Brian Asaba(2nd from left) being soothed after the infamous Women’s Day collapse. PHOTO BY EDDIE CHICCO.
What you need to know:
- The build up to Saturday’s tie has been a contrast to the last partly because of different circumstances.
For a better part of last year, the phrase ‘Women’s’ day’ evoked unbearable memories to the Betway Kobs following. It was the day their last season’s Nile Special Premiership title hopes were scorched to ashes by Stanbic Pirates in a style nobody saw coming.
With just a couple of wins away from a thirteenth league title, Kobs had to beat Pirates and Rimula Rhinos on the last day to earn the champagne popping rights but it was never the case.
Pirates cruised to 27-0 lead at the break as Kobs crumbled away, it ended in tears with Pirates taking the day 30-14.
Pirates coach Bobby Musinguzi was on the side lines that day and recalls proceedings in detail. The two sides meet again on Saturday and he thinks last year’s result can still play role ten months later.
“Usually in sports, there is a motivational element which is emotionally driven. Some players are motivated by some memories and that can’t be ruled out,” said Musinguzi.
It might be early days in the title race but both sides cannot afford a second loss, it would drift any of the two further away from the Holy Grail with already a loss apiece against champions and log leaders Hima Cement Heathens.
The build up to Saturday’s tie has been a contrast to the last partly because of different circumstances.
On hosting Kobs at their new Kings Park home in Bweyogerere early on last campaign, Pirates lost the tie 25-13 and a budding Josiah Sempeke turned out a revelation for the visitors.
Then arose a section of the Kobs fraternity that referred to Pirates home as ‘Queen’s Park’, something that irked the Sea Robbers and left them itching for vengeance. They got it on Women’s Day in stronger currency, Kobs had lost miserably at home and missed out on a title at the same time with Heathhens in pole position.
It made Pirates feel sort of champions in their own right but will those memories spur on Bweyogere boys for a repeat or can Kobs use the infamous March 8 disappointment to respond?
