Stanbic Black Pirates have maintained their perfect run in the Nile Special 7s 2023 series after they won the second circuit of the season played over the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) at Boma Grounds in Kitgum.
In the final of the second circuit, Pirates beat holders Jinja Hippos 24-00 to cement their dominance. In the opening circuit played in Jinja a week earlier, Pirates beat perennial rivals Kobs 19-07 in the final and with two straight circuit wins at the moment, the ‘sea robbers’ as they are known look to be the side to beat.
In Kitgum, Pirates’ tries were ran in by Wandera Mubarak, Arnold Atukunda (circuit MVP) and Egwau Joshua. William Nkore utilized the extras as Hippos failed to respond.
In the semis, Pirates defeated Heathens 24-07 with tries from Arnold Atukunda, Mubarak Wandera, Timothy Kisiga and Joshua Engwau. Conversions were made by William Nkore. Heathens’ try was made by Ivan Otema.
Meanwhile, in the women’s division, Pirates’ sister club Black Pearls beat Thunderbirds 21-05 to emerge champions.
Ritta Nadunga, Emilly Lekuru and Grace Auma scored a try apiece while Charlotte Thereza Mudoola nailed all the conversions as Black Pearls sailed to victory.
However, it was Thunderbirds’ Lorna Amoli who was named circuit MVP for the women’s division.
The series will take a one-week break and will return on the weekend of 22/23 July for the Rujumba 7s that will be played at Kings Park Arena in Bweyogerere and will be hosted by log leaders Pirates.
