Uganda 41-0 Zimbabwe
After years of falling short, the Lady Cranes came through with a memorable performance with a 41-0 drubbing of Zimbabwe in the on-going Women’s Rugby Africa Cup at Kyadondo Rugby Club.
Braces from Emily and captain Peace Lekuru helped do the damage while Grace Auma, Asha Nakityo and fullback Samiya Ayikoru each scored a try to make it seven tries.
Coaches Leo Lubambula and Kigongo Ssebalamu were all smiles at the end of the game having laboured to put the girls in shape for the last months with camps in Namugongo and training sessions at Pirates’ home, Kings Park Arena in Bweyogerere.
‘‘For us the 14-00 is really good on our side but we shouldnt get excited. We made mistaes as a team though we won and we are going back onto the drawing board just work on our mistakes and get back on Sunday stronger.”- Coach Leonard Lubambula
Veteran and former Skipper, Winnie Atyang took home the woman of the match award after a worthy display that saw her carry the ball with purpose and conviction on top of good defense. Another veteran in Charlotte Mudoola proved a masterstroke at fly half as she dictated play well despite managing to convert twice off five attempts.
The team had been oozing with confidence prior to the game despite being one place off Zimbabwe in the World Rugby Rankings. Zimbabwe looked to be in a better position having played some trial games unlike Uganda which had last played a test game towards the end of 2019. There were no signs of rust in the Lady Cranes as they operated like a well-oiled machine.
Zimbabwe suffered a number of injuries and knocks with a second game slated for Sunday at the same venue against the same opponents. While Zimbabwe have a lot to work on before Sunday, the Lady Cranes can only get better with some polishing here and there. Uganda’s back line executed when called upon with good hands and running while the pack dominated like never before.
It remains one of Lady Cranes’ best show in recent times and they deserved all the plaudits after all the ups and downs they have been through. It is the kind of win they can build on and go places.
Scorers
Samiya Ayikoru- 1
Peace Lekuru- 2
Emilly Lekuru- 2
Asha Nakityo- 1
Conversions
Charlotte Mudoola
