On Monday evening, the Uganda Rugby Cranes were victors over their Tunisian counterparts, winning 28-13. This was the second win in two games for the travelling Cranes, who had already won 20-14 in the previous week.
Like the previous week’s game, this one had a dodgy start-stop ring to it with multiple handling errors and infringements.
With the try area elusive, Tunisia opted for a shot at goal, scoring the penalty, to get the scoreboard moving 3-0 in their favour.
Uganda responded almost instantly after Timothy Kisiga received a kick and handed the reins to his fullback, Joseph Aredo.
The utility back ran from Uganda’s half to the opposite end, eluding defenders to score next to the posts. Liam “Ssekitoleko” Walker made no mistake with the extras.
The home team wrestled back with a penalty, but Liam Walker answered with Uganda’s own to send the game to a 10-06 Cranes lead break.
Into the second half, Timothy Kisiga and Jacob Ocen pushed Uganda further with two more tries and one Liam conversion.
Skipper Ivan Magomu got in on the scoreboard action with a penalty and drop goal to give Uganda a more than deserved 28-13 win in a game that saw veteran Alex Mubiru put on the national colours to provide injury cover at the hooker position.
The lady Cranes suffered their second defeat to their Tunisia counterparts, losing 53-13. Uganda scored a penalty through Tina Akello and two unconverted tries through Emily Lekuru and Leona Acen.
Start of a good collaboration
Earlier on (24th November 2023), the Uganda Rugby Union and Tunisia Rugby held a ceremonial signing of a partnership that reinforces the commitment of the two associations to foster cooperation, exchange of experiences and joint work to develop and promote rugby in their regions.
“Two prominent African rugby unions, FTR and URU, are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in their partnership with the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).”
Post-match remarks from @ByronOketayot (vice captain) and coach Fred Mudoola.#SupportUgRugbyCranes #NileSpecialRugby @NileSpecial @NCSUganda1 @UgandaRugby pic.twitter.com/wroOoFw7nD
— Uganda Rugby Cranes (@RugbyCranes) November 27, 2023
“This collaborative effort marks a pivotal moment in the advancement and growth of rugby across the African continent,” read a combined statement from the two unions.
Uganda’s Men’s and Women’s XV squads journeyed to Tunis for the first part of the test matches. The return games will happen in early 2024 in Kampala.
This collaboration was worked on way earlier by VP Technical Eric Butime to bolster the frequency of test games for both teams, aiming to elevate their global rankings and competitive edge.
“This momentous occasion signifies a collective dedication to enhancing the standard of rugby, encouraging grassroots participation, and creating pathways for the sport’s sustainable growth and success. “
The Rugby Cranes have had five tests this year, while the ladies have played three. With the new strategic partnerships, this number is bound to increase, with the business starting in early 2024.
Courtesy Photos
