KCB KOBs have literally risen from the dead and won the 2024 Mbarara 7s men’s Cup Final.
In just their first appearance, KOBs beat Buffaloes by 15-05 points at the Ntare School rugby pitch in Kakyeka, Mbarara City.
Derrick Tukwasiibwe, an old boy of Ntare School, scored a brace in the first half to put KOBs in the driving seat before Ivan Odhiambo halved the deficit for Buffaloes.
Buffaloes had possession and territory in the second half but did not make it count. When KOBs got an opening with the ball, Pius Ogena put the match to bed much to the delight of all the fans in attendance.
History and fortune favoured KOBs this weekend. This was their third successive victory in a circuit hosted by the Western region. Additionally, there has not been a series in recent and far history which has ended without KOBs stepping on the podium. The 2024 Mbarara 7s has enabled them to maintain the winning streak.
Black Pirates settled for bronze while series leaders Heathens finished fifth.
Final Men’s Standings at 2024 Mbarara 7s:
- KCB KOBs
- Toyota Buffaloes
- Stanbic Black Pirates
- Jinja Hippos
- Platinum Credit Heathens
- Plascon Mongers
- Walukuba Barbarians
- Rhinos
- Lifeguard Rams
- Elgon Wolves
- Warriors
- Buddu Bears*
- Mbarara Titans*
- Impis
- Kigezi Silverbacks*
- Mustangs*
In the women’s competition, Avengers proved too strong for Black Pearls in the Cup Final. They were victorious by 20-07 points courtesy of unconverted tries by Sarah Kirabo, Florence Babirye, Christine Akello, and Juliet Nandawula.
Emilly Lekuru touched down for Black Pearls who came second best against Avengers twice in the same weekend at Kakyeka.
This was Avengers’ fourth Cup Final victory, one which has all but sealed their first ever national 7s series title.
Thunderbirds avenged defeat to She Wolves in the pool phase by clinching the bronze medal.
Final Women’s Standings at 2024 Mbarara 7s:
- Avengers
- Black Pearls
- Thunderbirds
- She Wolves
- Kigezi Queens*
- Buddu Cuppaz*
- Nile Rapids
- Kitgum Queens
Overall, Mbarara 7s was an underwhelming and poorly attended tournament which was marred by a torrential hailstorm.
The 2024 Nile Special 7s Series will officially conclude next weekend with the Henry Rujumba Memorial 7s at Kings Park.
