Kings Park Arena was electrified on Saturday as the Stanbic Black Pirates Rugby Club delivered a spirited performance to defeat Kenya’s Nondescripts RFC 20-17, securing a historic place in the Enterprise Cup final.
The semi-final clash drew massive support from Ugandan fans, who turned up in large numbers to back their side. The Pirates are now the country’s sole representatives in the competition following the earlier elimination of Heathens Rugby Club and Kobs Rugby Club.
There was early tension as Nondescripts took the lead in a tightly contested opening half. However, the Pirates relied on resilience and home advantage to fight back, levelling the score at 10-10 just before halftime, with William Nkore slotting a crucial conversion.
The hosts returned from the break with renewed intensity. A series of tries, highlighted by powerful performances from Conrad Wanyama, Frank Kidega, Desire Ayera, and Alex Aturinda, pushed the Pirates into a commanding lead and ignited the home crowd.
Tactical decisions by head coach Mervin Odongo also proved pivotal. The introduction of Haruna Muhammad and Umar Duff added fresh energy, increasing attacking pressure and helping the Pirates edge ahead.
By the final whistle, the Pirates had sealed a narrow but significant 20-17 victory, confirming their progression to the final of one of the region’s most prestigious rugby tournaments.
They will now face Kabras Sugar RFC, who booked their place in the final after defeating Menengai Oilers 29-18. The final is set to take place in Nairobi.
Speaking after the match, Sam Mwogeza described the victory as a major milestone for both the club and its sponsors. “As a bank committed to fostering Uganda’s growth, seeing clubs like Stanbic Black Pirates rise from mere participation to reaching the finals is something we deeply associate with. It reflects the drive needed to support socio-economic transformation, especially among women, youth, and farmers,” Mwogeza said.
This marks the first time the Black Pirates have reached the Enterprise Cup final, underscoring their steady rise in regional rugby and the growing competitiveness of Ugandan clubs on the continental stage.
Coach Odongo expressed confidence ahead of the decisive clash, emphasising the team’s determination to compete at the highest level.
“After this step, we are going for the finals, and we are ready for the showdown. We know the team we are facing is strong; they are the winners of their national league, but the Pirates are not just going to participate. We are going to give our best,” he said.
He added that the team will not only represent the club but carry the hopes of the entire nation into the final.