Platinum Credit Heathens completed a double over their perennial rivals Kobs in the 2023 Nile Special Rugby Premier League season after beating them 19 – 12 in the second round fixture on Saturday at Kyadondo Sports Club in Kampala.
In the first round played at Legends Grounds in January, Kobs lost 15-17 in what was dubbed as a controversial match by a section of fans. The second round game at Kyadondo as well had rival fans talking as they were not in agreement with the circumstances that led to the outcome of the game.
The game had an ‘unpleasant ending’ when Kobs’ players protested a penalty awarded to the home side towards the end of the game. By then, scores were even 12-12 and the visitors were determined to ensure that Heathens don’t take the penalty.
Referee Ronald Wutimba ended up awarding a penalty try to Heathens and ended the game after that moment handing the home side a 19-12 triumph that took them further atop the 10-team table now with 59 points.
Earlier in the game, Innocent Gwokto’s try cancelled Joseph Aredo’s penalty to hand the home side the lead in front a passionate crowd. Chris Lubanga missed the extras with Heathens posting a slim 05-03 lead.
The visitors were quick to reinstate their lead and it was Aredo once again who slotted home a penalty to give Kobs a 05-06 lead. They went into the break 05-09 thanks to Aredo’s hat-trick of penalties.
Early in the second half, Kobs failed to utilize two drop goals and Heathens made them pay when Trevor Ochan crossed the white wash and touched down. Lubanga made the conversion and the home side led 12-09.
Aredo was the only scorer for Kobs and he leveled matters 12-all later in the second half. However, a mele that ensured later saw Heathens take the win after they were given a penalty try.
Nile Special Rugby Premier League
Saturday Results – Week 13
*Heathens 19 – 12 Kobs
*Impis 26 – 30 Mongers
*Barbarians 10 – 24 Buffaloes
*Pirates RFC 27 – 23 Hippos
*Rhinos 08 – 06 Rams
