The Rugby Cranes were upset 22-16 by Algeria in the Rugby Africa Cup but still marched onto the quarterfinals as pool C winners. Uganda’s 53-13 win over Ghana on Day One powered Uganda top of Pool C even after losing to Algeria, who also made the quarterfinals.
Ghana did enough to deserve a place in the next stage but Algeria did more. After giving away a double figure lead to Ghana and losing 20-22 to Ghana last Wednesday, only beating hosts Uganda would keep them in the Rugby Africa Cup. They did it with authority, scoring four tries and converting one. Cranes’ vice captain Brian Odongo and Adrian Kasito scored Uganda’s tries while captain Ivan Magomu and Maxwell Ebonga added penalties to tally 16 points. Uganda managed six points followed by Algeria on five while Ghana were unlucky to be eliminated with four.
Uganda will play Kenya in next year’s quarterfinals at a venue yet to be confirmed. Algeria are up against Senegal, who beat Kenya in pool A. Captain Ivan Magomu remains hopeful the side can pick up the pieces just in time for Kenya. A lot can be done to improve the different areas.
Lady Cranes rugby team
The Lady Cranes have made the nation proud in the last week with two big wins. A 41-0 win followed by another with a 34-3 score against Zimbabwe proved there is more to come. Player of the match Faith Namugga had a solid shift with a try and was a force at front row. Captain Peace Lekuru and namesake Emily Lekuru have enjoyed playing Zimbabwe, they have been on top of their game with a formidable center pairing. Samiya Ayikoru and Grace Auma have been flying like gazelles through little pockets of space. They have been effective in defence and attack. Winnie Atyang used the ball well and the future looks bright with many new faces impressing. Coach Leo Lubambula and assistant Kigongo Sebalamu have done a good job putting this side together. This is a good way to build on with a possible Elgon Cup showdown on the way.
The win against Zimbabwe sees Lady Cranes now currently in the 31st World Rugby ranking from their previous 39th position.
