Eight teams were slated to compete in the women’s Uganda Cup, but only 7 participated. As the competition narrows to the 4 semifinalists, the absence of the Makerere-based Ewes RFC is only getting louder.
The Ewes qualified for the semifinal by winning their games on the pitch, but a boardroom decision arising from complaints of fielding ineligible players, lodged by the She Wolves and the Avengers, got the Ewes ejected from the tournament.
The Panthers have grown into the tournament, thanks to the experience of Brenda Kayiyi and the grit of the youthful Latifa Tiko. This duo will have to raise their game and lift the Panthers into the final to meet the winner between the Avengers and Nile Rapids.
On the other hand, the She Wolves are going to miss the services of Sunday Anirwoth, Habiba Namalembe dearly, and 8 try hero against the Kigezi Queens, Gladys Wilembe. The trio is part of the Mbale team currently playing at the Dubai 7s under the Dubai 7s For Good campaign. If there is a time for the Panthers to beat the She Wolves, it is now.
The Avengers will take on the Nile Rapids in the other semifinal. This is a repeat of last year’s Uganda Cup final, where Tina Akello rose to the occasion and almost singlehandedly annihilated the Avengers.
Both sides are now at full strength with their national 7s stars back in the squads. The Avengers shall enjoy the services of hooker Fazira Namukwaya and the playmaking duo of Juliet Nandawula and Maimuna Nassozi.
Both games shall be played at 2:00 p.m. at neutral venues.
- Avengers Vs Nile Rapids – Kyadondo
- Panthers Vs She Wolves – Kings Park Arena