Black Pirates opened their 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership title defence with a hard-fought 26–24 victory over old rivals KOBs in a pulsating season opener at Kings Park Arena, Bweyogerere, on Saturday.
The champions started sharply, settling quicker and bossing territory and possession. Tries from Frank Kidega, Haruna Muhammad and Eliphaz Emong gave Pirates early control, and despite a brief response from Jaffa Abdallah, they went into the break firmly on top at 21–7.
KOBs returned with intent after halftime. Rasul Abiriga’s penalty cut the gap, but Pirates answered through Desire Ayera, whose try stretched the lead to 26–10 and looked to have put the game beyond reach.
As this rivalry often delivers, the contest refused to end quietly. KOBs dug deep and launched a late charge, with Mike Otto and Faraj Odugo crossing to drag the score back to 26–24 and set up a tense finish.
Pirates held on until the final whistle to deny KOBs a dramatic comeback and claim another narrow win in a rivalry defined by fine margins.
It echoed recent meetings, Pirates edged KOBs 24–23 in last year’s Uganda Cup semifinal, while KOBs remain the only side to beat Pirates in XVs rugby last season.
Pirates coach Marvin Odongo praised the contest.
“I am happy for the win, but also for the KOBs boys for giving us a really good encounter,” he said.
“Games against KOBs are always tough. We made errors, but we are grateful for the result.”
The win puts the 2025 league and Uganda Cup champions back on familiar ground, while KOBs leave with positives despite another painful near miss.
Elsewhere on Matchday One, Impis beat Warriors 44–15, Heathens defeated Kakira Simbas 34–13, Mongers edged Walukuba Barbarians 28–27, Victoria Sharks overcame Rhinos 29–10, and Toyota Buffaloes cruised past Hippos 40–17.
