Hippos fans braved the rain as they joined the Jinja Hippos Rugby Club in the fight to protect their home against the KOBs on Saturday at Dam waters in the opening round of the 2024 Nile Special Rugby Championship.
Those attending the clash in Jinja were the most dedicated rugby fans by standing and chanting through the inclinent weather conditions, dealing with strong wind gusts, heavy rain and bitter cold from the shores of the mighty river Nile.
The Jinja Hippos who looked mature enough to fight for their home started with a draw back as the KOBs punished them for an infringement putting three points on the board.
The very angry and resolute Hippos quickly fought back and had five points on the board as they headed for half time with a try from Ayman Bagalana who started his first game as the team’s fly half.
The Jinja Hippos were stirred up for the second half as they picked two quick tries from Julius Opio and Paul Siringiti with the latter showing quick thinking to snatch the ball from the KOBs’ loose forwards, leaving the visitors backline gaping.
KOBs fought back with a try before Yasin Wasswa extended Hippos’ lead with a penalty kick to push the score to 18-10.
At this moment, it all looked finished though the KOBs had other plans as they went ahead to put on a last minute fight to earn a try.
However, this late surge wasn’t enough to win them the game as it ended 18-15 in favour of the hosts.
It was all achieved with the very vocal and vibrant Hippos faithful, exemplified by Kenneth Opolot, who braved the rain in his “high-quality” replica jersey, believing it would “dry immediately.” “We were all soaked,” he said, “but it was all worth it.”
With their first win against a “big three” team under their belt, the Hippos are brimming with confidence. They now set their sights on their next challenge: the Walukuba Barbarians, who are coming off a 17-13 loss against the newly promoted Eagles Rugby Club.
Courtesy Photos
