Walukuba to build on Jinja derby heroics

Improving. Walukuba’s players sorround Kobs’ Patrick Leku earlier. PHOTO by E. CHICCO

The first five weeks of the Nile Special Premiership have been a story to forget for the newly promoted Walukuba Barbatians, big margin loses eclipsed all the hard work put in behind the scenes.

After gaining promotion to the top flight, the Barbarians made it two Jinja based sides in the division.
Jinja Hippos, the other side, had joined a season earlier to set up a Jinja derby which was witnessed for the first time on match day six at the Abel Dhaira Memorial Stadium.

Hippos fell prey to the Barbarians 14-12 with Godwin Abwang and Alex Aturinda tries being converted by Pool Kalungi. The win moved them a place from ninth to eighth on five points. Like any newly promoted side, avoiding relegation is Walukuba’s short term goal and it can only be achieved by winning more games. Coach Leo Lubambula is thinking their first win can spur them on for more.

“ We are all excited about winning the first game in the top flight league more so the Jinja derby. It is very motivating,” Lubambula told Daily Monitor.

“The boys have been improving every game and playing regardless of the end game scores and I am really happy . I have asked them not to lose focus with the excitement. We have lots of games. I believe the boys will win more games to keep in the league which is our short term goal,” he added.

No time to rest
Lubambula and co have to cut the celebrations short with log leaders Hima Heathens visiting town on Saturday.
Rimula Rhinos moved sixth with a 13-0 win at Rams. Still operating far from their best , the Francis Odonga captained outfit relied on a Scott Oluoch try , two penalties and a conversion all booted by Hillary Ategeka to fend off a stubborn Rams. Flank Byron Oketayot admits Rhinos have been shaky because of a few issues but with time they can patch up.
“We have got some weakness and in the past games we have lacked confidence. Add Injuries and work commitments but we are climbing the ladder and we shall be there soon,” said Oketayot.

Heathens and Dusupay Warriors lead with 23 points, Kobs follow with 21 as Pirates sit fourth on 18 just like Buffaloes in fifth.The premiership returns on Saturday with a humdinger when champions Black Pirates host Betway Kobs at Kings Park Stadium, Bweyogerere.