The Victoria Cup made a resounding return on Saturday as the Uganda Rugby Cranes took on Zambia at King’s Park Arena in Bweyogerere.
This was the first time an international test was being hosted at the home of the Stanbic Black Pirates.
The entire experience exceeded expectations, showcasing the undeniable thirst within the Ugandan rugby fraternity for a 15s international game.
Last year, after numerous cancellations of men’s XV games, we witnessed a women’s edition of the Victoria Cup at Wankuluku.
However, this time, everything fell into place and fortune favored us to host this year’s men’s edition.
Uganda commenced the tournament with a decent victory over Zambia, securing a final score of 30-08.
Eric Mulamula, Timothy Kisiga, Mark Omoding, and a penalty try contributed to the difference between the two teams.
Captain Ivan Magomu added two penalties and a conversion to further solidify the Rugby Cranes’ dominance.
Scarcity of quality wingers for the Rugby 15s
The team selection initially raised some eyebrows but ultimately proved to be successful. Jacob Ochen, primarily known as a backrower, was chosen to start on the wing.
In the second half, Faraji Odugo transitioned from hooker to assume wing duties after Shakim Ssembusi‘s departure.
This raised concerns about the scarcity of quality wingers in our country. Many speedsters have opted for more lucrative 7s variations, limiting our pool of exceptional outside backs for coaches to choose from.
Nevertheless, despite these limitations, there are several viable wing options available for coaches to consider.
The forwards on the wing showcased an effective defensive game but lacked potency in attack.
Shakim, our only native winger, made valuable contributions before he picked an injury, and was replaced by a forward.
This prompts us to question whether coaches prioritized defense over attack tactically.
The national XV team last competed during the 2023 World Cup qualifiers in France and has since been inactive.
How Uganda Rugby Cranes came out on top
We had to rely on the partnerships forged by players at the club level to drive our performance at the national level, which explains the brilliance displayed by the Pirates players.
The half-back combination of Magomu and Conrad Wanyama, spanning over 11 years, played a crucial role in our gameplay.
Flyhalf and Captain Magomu created numerous opportunities, although only a few were successfully executed.
The support play was generally lacking, resulting in turnovers and missed chances.
Liam Walker made his debut in the second half, with Magomu shifting to fullback and Kisiga moving to the wing.
The team’s Antoine Griezmann had a decent game, but some of his passes lacked accuracy, hindering our forward momentum.
Kisiga was rightfully awarded Man of the Match, although it is worth mentioning that Magomu also deserved recognition for his exceptional performance.
However, due to his consistent stellar displays, people have come to expect nothing less from him. Consequently, he is often overlooked for such accolades.
Overall, we emerged victorious from the game against Zambia. While they may not be the most formidable opponents to gauge our abilities against, it is reassuring to know that we are not at our worst.
Losing to a team with a collection of several jerseys stitched together to make a game-day kit would have been disheartening for Ugandan Rugby.
Although we may have appeared somewhat rusty, with a little polishing, we will undoubtedly shine brightly.
The Victoria Cup continues as Kenya plays their first match of the tournament against Zambia this Wednesday at Kyadondo Rugby grounds.
Subsequently, we will face Kenya on Sunday in a game that serves as both the first leg of the Elgon Cup and concludes this thrilling tournament.
Courtesy Photos