Pirates eye redemption in Entebbe Rugby 7s Circuit

Timothy Kisiga, Alex Aturinda, and William Nkore are expected to lead the Stanbic Black Pirates’ charge for victory in the third round of the National Rugby 7s Circuit this weekend in Entebbe.

The two-day Plascon Entebbe 7s, set for Saturday and Sunday, promises high-octane action as teams battle to improve their standings and boost their chances of clinching this year’s crown. With the stakes rising, every fixture is set to be a gruelling test.

Defending champions Pirates have had a rocky start, falling short in the opening two circuits won by Walukuba Barbarians and Toyota Buffaloes. But acting coach Isaac Massanganzira is confident of a turnaround.

“It’s too early to write us off. We’ve only played two out of seven circuits. Our focus is to win this one and build momentum from there,” Massanganzira said.

“We’ve addressed key gaps and will bring in experienced players like Nkore, Kisiga, and Aturinda to reinforce the young squad we’ve been fielding,” added the league-winning skipper.

Massanganzira is banking on the trio’s chemistry with Samwiri Kayondo, currently second on the scorers’ chart with 12 points, to deliver results.

Before reaching the knockout stage, Pirates must navigate a tough Pool C lineup featuring Rhinos, Jinja Hippos, and Impis.

In Pool B, table leaders Walukuba Barbarians face KCB KOBS, Elgon Wolves, and Victoria Sharks.

Pool A sees Buffaloes take on Rams, Gulu City, and Warriors, while hosts Plascon Mongers battle Kampunis Eagles, Platinum Credit Heathens, and Entebbe Jaguars in Pool D.

Rugby 7s

Third National Rugby 7s Circuit

Saturday & Sunday in Entebbe

Table standings:

1.Walukuba Barbarians 41 Points

2.Toyota Buffaloes 39

3.Rhinos 32

4.Heathens 27

5.Plascon Mongers 27

6.Stanbic Pirates 23

7.KCB Kobs 23

8.Kampanis eagles 19

9.Life guard Rams 18

10 Jinja Hippos 12