The battle to avoid relegation takes center stage with two spots at stake, two pairs; Elgon Wolves – Warriors and Eagles – Plascon Mongers are set to clash in a high-stakes playoff.
These sides are no strangers to each other, having met during the season and now, with everything on the line, they must call upon those experiences to ensure survival.
The first leg of this battle unfolds on Saturday, April 26 with Elgon Wolves hosting Warriors in Mbale and Eagles welcoming Plascon Mongers in Kitante.
The return fixtures will follow on May 3 with the winners on aggregate securing their place in next season’s top-flight competition.
Let’s take a look at how these teams fared when they locked horns during the regular season.
- Elgon Wolves vs Warriors: A mini rivalry rekindled
Few matchups in this battle carry as much history as Elgon Wolves vs Warriors. Their recent encounters have been filled with drama, none more so than the 2023 URU Championship semifinal at Jinja Dam Waters.
That match ended in Elgon Wolves’ favour but controversy followed as Warriors alleged that their opponents had fielded seven ineligible players. The rematch was set to be a grudge match and Warriors sought revenge when they met again in the regular season.
That opportunity came on Match Week 9 and Warriors made a resounding statement, dismantling Elgon Wolves 36-11 in Mbale. The victory not only gave Warriors a psychological edge heading into this survival battle but it also exposed Wolves’ weaknesses, which they will have to address before the April 26 clash.
Now with survival at stake, Elgon Wolves have the chance to make amends on their home turf before heading to Legends Rugby Grounds on May 3 for the decisive second leg. But Warriors will be confident, knowing they have already triumphed in hostile territory this season.
- Kampani Eagles vs Plascon Mongers: A tough challenge for Eagles
For Eagles, life in the top flight has been tough. Their regular season meeting with Plascon Mongers on Match Week Six was a tough lesson, as they fell 35-12 in Entebbe. Mongers, with their experience, controlled the game and proved too strong for the Eagles.
Now, with everything to fight for, Eagles will be desperate to turn the tide in front of their home fans at Kitante on April 26. A strong result in the first leg is crucial because the return fixture will take them back to Entebbe on May 3, where Mongers have already shown their dominance.
Only the winners on aggregate from both ties will secure their place in the top division for next season. For the losers, relegation looms.
Round 1 | April 26, 3 PM
- Elgon Wolves Vs Warriors – Mbale
- Eagles Vs Plascon Mongers – Kitante
Round 2 | May 3, 4 PM
- Warriors Vs Elgon Wolves – Legends
- Plascon Mongers Vs Eagles – Entebbe
