Black Pirates Extend Perfect Start with Victory Over Sharks
The Black Pirates continued their stellar form in the 2025 National Rugby Premiership with a 28-13 triumph over newcomers Victoria University Sharks at King’s Park, Bweyogerere, on Saturday afternoon. The victory marked their third consecutive win in as many matches, showcasing their dominance early in the season.
A Tale of Two Halves
The first half was a tightly contested affair, with errors from the hosts and spirited defensive work from the Sharks setting the tone. Victoria University Sharks, under the guidance of forwards coach Cyrus Wathum, came out strong, pinning the Pirates deep in their half. Isreal Makokha opened the scoring for the Sharks with a well-taken penalty, giving the visitors an early 3-0 lead.
However, the Pirates quickly found their rhythm. After sustained pressure, second-rower Eliphaz Emong crashed over for the Sea Robbers’ first try, converted by William Nkore, who added a penalty shortly after to extend the lead to 10-3.
The Sharks fought back valiantly, forcing multiple turnovers at the breakdown through Alema Ruhweza and Humphrey Tashobya. A pivotal moment came when Tashobya heroically held up Elvin Odiambo, denying the Pirates a certain try just before halftime.
Pirates Take Control
The second half began with Nkore adding two penalties for the Pirates, widening the gap to 16-3. The Sharks struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with Makokha and Emmanuel Ochan missing key kicks, while the team suffered a temporary setback with Saul Kivumbi sent to the sin bin.
Even with the Pirates reduced to 14 men after Isaac Massa was yellow-carded, the Sharks couldn’t fully capitalize. Though they created chances, Tashobya’s defensive heroics and a disallowed try by Allan Kyagulanyi kept them at bay.
Kivumbi eventually powered through the Pirates’ defense to score for the Sharks after a quick ball from veteran scrumhalf Davis Kyewalabye. However, Daniel Katerega missed the conversion, leaving the Sharks trailing 16-8.
Pirates’ Finishing Touch
The Pirates extended their lead shortly after the restart through winger Allan Karuhanga. A quick tap-and-go from Conrad Wanyama caught the Sharks off guard, allowing Karuhanga to slice through the defense and score. Although Nkore missed the conversion, the momentum shifted firmly in favor of the Pirates.
Their expansive style of play soon paid off as the Sea Robbers worked the ball from side to side, culminating in Roy Kizito diving over in the corner. Nkore nailed the difficult conversion, pushing the score to 28-8.
The Sharks fought back in the dying minutes, with eighthman Mark Omoding crossing the whitewash after a series of relentless phases. Though the conversion was missed, it was a commendable effort from the visitors, who showed grit until the final whistle.
Pirates Remain Unbeaten
The Black Pirates’ depth and resilience were evident throughout the match, with standout performances from Nkore, Karuhanga, and Tashobya. Their ability to adapt and execute under pressure ensured their unbeaten start to the season remains intact.
The Sharks, despite the loss, showed promise, with strong performances from Kivumbi, Ruhweza, and Kyewalabye. Their physicality and determination will make them a team to watch as the season progresses.
The Pirates now sit comfortably atop the Premiership standings, while the Sharks will look to regroup and build on their performance as they seek their first win of the season.
Match Week 3 Results
- Black Pirates 28-13 Victoria Sharks
- Heathens 83-06 Elgon Wolves
- Buffaloes 12-12 Walukuba Barbarians
- KOBs 71-23 Eagles
- Mongers 32-40 Rhinos
- Jinja Hippos 41-15 Warriors