When the National Rugby Premiership record champions Heathens host the reigning champions Black Pirates, it shall be a steep climb for the Kyadondo side.
The Heathens, with a rich history behind them, have a present Pirates question to answer if they are to regain any of the treble trophies they won in 2024. For a team that had a low 2025 season, coming out with a double for the Pirates was more than enough to boost confidence ahead of the 2026 rugby season.
Why Pirates have the edge
A glance at the personnel for Saturday’s encounter suggests that the visitors have the upper hand. However, in a top 3 encounter, it is never that obvious. The Heathens have welcomed back Aaron Ofoyrwoth, who has been nursing an injury. In addition to Double Black, the Yellow Machine shall have the services of veteran winger turned flanker, Lawrence Ssebuliba.
The Pirates, on the other hand, look like a side that wants to win the game in the first half and confirm that victory in the second. The starting forwards pack has been consistent for coach Marvin Odong, while the halfback pairing of Stephen Alul and William Nkore is the safe and reliable option at his disposal.
If and when it gets down to the bench, the Pirates have the upper hand. They possess the more lethal bomb squad in the forwards, while going for the 5 – 2 substitutes split. The Heathens, on the other hand, have put their hopes in the backs, going for a scrumhalf in Nicholas Kato, and utility backs in Michael Amollo and Julius Oyuk.
A glimmer of hope for Heathens
Uncharacteristically, the Heathens have youth on their side. In the pack, they have Sylvester Munguacel and Vani Adebua, who are good ball carriers, and Joshua Kafugakande, who is a tireless defender. In the backs, the playmaking axis of Matthew Musasizi and Malcom Okello could wreak havoc for the visitors.
On a lighter note, home advantage and the weather could determine how close or far the Heathens get in ending their three-game skid against the Sea Robbers.
