In all aspects of life, sports inclusive, preparation is key because it allows you to anticipate challenges and develop clear strategies to increase the chances of success.
The Rugby Premiership clash between Black Pirates and Jinja Hippos at King’s Park on Saturday was a clear testament to the impact of preparation.
The match was preceded by rain which meant the team strategies for the the encounter would have to change swiftly to incorporate playing a wet ball.
Pirates looked better prepared and right from the on set employed a high ball off Conrad Wanyama’s boot that troubled Hippos.
Shortly after kick-off, Jeremiah Okello received a high ball and the winger weaved through Hippos’ defence to ground at the corner. Nkore missed the conversion but would later convert a couple of penalties to give the Seas Robbers an 11-0.
While the Hippos dominated the scrum and earned multiple penalties, they were never in territories of concern for the hosts. The only time Hippos chose to go for points, Yasin Wasswa skewed his kick.
Okello extended the Pirates’ lead at the stroke of halftime. The winger collected a grabber from Emmanuel Odoi and ran a few meters before booting the ball high and cleanly took and raced to the try line. Nkore converted for an 18-00 halftime lead.
Hippos got on the scoreboard early in the second half through a Yasin Wasswa penalty but Nkore responded in equal measure at the other end before charging down Wasswa’s kick and running clear to score Pirates third try of the game.
Eigthman Mubarak Wandera grounded for the Pirates after several phases to push the Sea Robbers’ score into the 30s and there was no way back for Hippos as coach Marvin Odong shuffled his forwards to stabilise the scrum that had been dominated in the first half.
Bruno Kisule scored Hippos’ only five-pointer of the game.
Match Week 7 Results
- KOBs 70-00 Elgon Wolves
- Victoria Sharks 20-15 Rhinos
- Warriors 18-21 Buffaloes
- Black Pirates 38-10 Jinja Hippos
- Eagles 12-25 Walukuba Barbarians
- Mongers 12-22 Heathens
