Smack Edges Namilyango in Tense Rugby Semi, Sets Clash with Jinja SS in Final

St. Mary’s College Kisubi (Smack) overcame hosting pressure to beat Namilyango College 13-11 in the boys’ rugby semifinals at the Uganda Secondary School Sports Association (USSSA) Ball Games I in Mukono on Wednesday.

A morning downpour gave way to clear skies for an intense matchup. Smack struck first with two early penalties from Christian Chono in the 5th and 13th minutes. Namilyango responded through Titus Nyonyintono’s penalty and drop goal to level at 6-6. Ambrose Ssebalijja’s halftime try put the hosts ahead 11-6, unconverted.

In the second half, Daniel Onek’s try and Trey Gajeja’s conversion tied it at 11-11. Smack held firm despite Namilyango’s late pressure, securing the win without additional scores. Coach Alvin Nkamba emphasized focus on the final, setting aside regional qualification for now.

In the other semi, Jinja SS staged a comeback to defeat three-time champions King’s College Budo 26-10. Trailing 3-0 after Jeremy Kayondo’s penalty, Jinja rallied with penalties from Timothy Mawanda Kizito, Marvin Tegike’s try, John Mathew Oluka’s converted try, Emmanuel Enoba’s penalty, and Kizito’s second try. Budo’s Gideon Kisangala scored a late consolation.

Semifinalists qualify for the East Africa Secondary School Sports Association Games in Tanzania. Finals are set for Thursday.

In hockey, Ntare School beat Budo 4-1, while Kakungulu Memorial edged Mbarara High 2-1. Kakungulu’s girls also advanced, facing Mt. St. Mary’s Namagunga in the final after a 1-0 penalty win over Gayaza High. Girls’ football semis shift to next week due to national team commitments.

Source: Daily Monitor