Sadolin Mongers visit defending champions Kobs on Saturday at Legends Rugby Grounds in pursuit of a rare double, having defeated the same side 28-15 in the first half of the Nile Special Uganda Rugby Premiership last year in Entebbe.
Mongers’ new year started with a 17-13 loss to Toyota Buffaloes at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds last Saturday and the team will take no chances for granted this time round as the side look forward to reviving their perfect run that had them top of the log before Heathens defeated Kobs to impeach them off the top.
Sadolin Mongers’ coach Robert Powell says a number of changes have been made to the side that lost to Buffaloes, bringing in a couple of new faces, but the timing of the fixture does not depict how massive the encounter is to unfold.
“To be honest it is a shame that we play the early fixture because it deserves top billing,” he told Kawowo Sports.
“Obviously when the URU drew up the game fixture lists for this season, Mongers were not expected to perform to current standards but the gloves are off and we’re going for broke to get our season back on track – we want a convincing victory this Saturday.”
Kobs are at home as they return from Makerere Rugby Grounds, their recent outing, where they claimed a 06-32 victory over Impis. They will be seeking revenge with the backing of home fans, Mongers having dented their unbeaten run hopes this season.
Coach Allan Musoke is expected to field a very strong Kobs squad as the side keep on the title chase against leaders Heathens and Sadolin Mongers. Justin Kimono, James Ijiongat, Emmanuel Echodu, Brian Odong, and Scott Oluoch are expected to feature for the home side and scrummage will be very essential if the side are to have a go at Mongers.
Despite his unsatisfactory performance at Buffaloes where he missed a couple of kicks, Adrian Wasswa could return to the starting line up, with Elijah Segawa. Mongers will need to close the gaps in the middle swiftly as well as Keith Seruyange’s avenue in the flanks. The side will require top performance till the end to avoid disappointments if they are to complete the rare double.
FACTS
Mongers won the season first half encounter with Kobs, 28-15 in Entebbe.
Mongers were the first team to beat Kobs this season.
Kobs completed a double against Mongers last season defeating the side 40-13 and 07-39 respectively.
Kobs are currently second on the log with 29 points while Mongers are third with 26 points. Heathens lead with 31 points.
Mongers have lost two away matches, winning the other two, a 50% performance on trip.
Kobs are unbeaten at home this season.
Saturday Fixtures
Legends Rugby Grounds
Kobs Vs Sadolin Mongers at 2:30pm
Ezee Money Rhinos Vs Mutoni Warriors at 4:30pm
Kyadondo Rugby Grounds
Toyota Buffaloes Vs Sadolin Mongers at 2:30pm
Heathens Vs Pirates at 4:30pm