Stanbic Black Pirates kept Uganda’s hopes alive in the Rugby Enterprise Cup with a narrow victory over KCB Rugby Club at Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku on Saturday evening.

Earlier in the day, Ugandan side Heathens had suffered a heavy 61-19 defeat to Kenyan giants Kabras Sugar, dampening the mood among home fans.

However, the Pirates restored belief with a spirited performance in the later fixture, played at 4 p.m., thrilling the large crowd in attendance.

With Heathens eliminated from the tournament, attention shifted to the Bweyogerere-based Pirates to deliver a result for Uganda—and they rose to the occasion with an 11-10 win over KCB.

The hosts entered the match with a clear and disciplined game plan, showing composure and tactical awareness. William Nkore opened the scoring with a penalty after a foul on man of the match Conrad Wanyama.

Nkore added another penalty to give the Pirates a 6-0 lead at halftime, as KCB were kept at bay by a well-organised Ugandan defence.

KCB responded in the second half with a try to close the gap, but the Pirates remained composed. Jeremiah Okello crossed over for the hosts’ only try, sparking celebrations among the home supporters.

KCB struck again with a second try following a defensive lapse, narrowing the score to 11-10 and setting up a tense finish.

The final minutes were tightly contested, but the Pirates held their nerve to protect their slender lead and secure qualification to the semifinals.

Stanbic Black Pirates will now face Kenya’s Nondescripts Rugby Club in the semifinals in Kampala on April 11, 2026. Nondescripts booked their place after eliminating KCB Kobs, setting up a highly anticipated East African showdown.