In a match played under windy rains at Kyadondo Rugby Club on Saturday evening, Heathens and KOBs fought to a hard-fought 11-11 draw in the Uganda Rugby Premiership.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the game delivered intensity and drama, with both sides displaying grit and tactical discipline.
KOBs, dominant in the scrum, had the edge in set pieces though Joseph Aredo didn’t turn up with his kick shoe but Heathens stood firm, countering with strong defensive resilience.
The game’s opening exchanges were closely contested with Tony Okello striking first for Heathens. However, Karim Arinaitwe responded for KOBs just before halftime, ensuring the teams went into the break level at 8-8.
The second half saw Aaron Ofoyrwoth and Malcolm Okello kick a penalty each for Heathens while Calvin Gizamba slotted home a penalty and crucial drop goal for KOBs.
Both sides had scoring opportunities but they were wasted at critical moments most notably Josiah Ssempeke and Gizamba keeping the game deadlocked.
Despite their strong recent form, KOBs, who came in as favourites struggled to break Heathens’ defensive structure.
Heathens, on the other hand, continued their steady resurgence, bouncing back from a rough patch that included a hat trick of losses earlier in the season.
With both teams picking up two points from the draw, KOBs remain second on the log with 40 points while Heathens hold onto fourth place with 32 points as the league enters its final round of the regular season.
Other results on the day saw Warriors edge Kampani Eagles 26-21 and Walukuba crush the Elgon Wolves 69-6 in Mbale.
Victoria Sharks stunned Mongers 22-19 in Entebbe while Jinja Hippos narrowly defeated Rhinos 27-22 in a closely contested game.
For top side Black Pirates, they overpowered Buffaloes 39-18 at the Kings Park Arena.
