Sports 26 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Heathens Overcome Hippos' Early Surge for 41-17 Victory in Jinja
Heathens staged a comeback after Hippos' fast start to win 41-17 in the Uganda Rugby Premiership, climbing to fourth place with 31 points. Pirates crushed Warriors 83-3, while Buffaloes held top spot after beating Impis 24-7. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/rugby/heathens-turn-the-tide-after-early-hippos-blitz-5437246
Heathens turned around an early blitz by Hippos to secure a convincing 41-17 win at Ruck Yard in Jinja on Saturday. Despite financial hurdles that nearly canceled the match, Heathens covered costs to ensure it proceeded, entering with determination to grab maximum points.
Hippos exploded out of the gates, with Brian Luseka diving over early and Meddy Mapesa adding points for a 10-0 lead in the first ten minutes. Heathens quickly regrouped, introducing Denis Etwau for added edge.
A powerful rolling maul led to a penalty try, narrowing the gap. Emmanuel Odoi converted after Alphonse Openy’s score, then Herbert Champara crossed before halftime, giving Heathens a 19-10 advantage.
Post-interval, Ayman Bagalana scored for Hippos, but Heathens pulled away with tries from Odoi, Marvin Asaba, and captain Aaron Oforywoth, clinching a bonus point.
This result boosts Heathens to fourth on 31 points, overtaking Victoria Sharks after their 23-20 loss to Mongers. Pirates dominated Warriors 83-3, Buffaloes topped Impis 24-7 to lead the table, and Kobs thrashed Walukuba 57-17.
Weekend Results
Women: She Wolves 12-41 Nile Rapids, Avengers 31-6 Ewes, Panthers 0-56 Thunderbirds.
Men: Kakira 19-26 Rhinos, Walukuba 17-57 KCB Kobs, Buffaloes 24-7 Impis, Mongers 23-20 Victoria Sharks, Warriors 3-83 Pirates, Hippos 17-41 Heathens.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)