Pirates Pay Tribute to Gongodyo with Crucial Semi-Final Victory Over Heathens

Stanbic Black Pirates boosted their chances of defending the 2025/26 Uganda Rugby Premiership title after defeating Heathens 15-3 in the first leg of the semi-finals on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

The highly anticipated encounter was played at Kyadondo Rugby Club under scorching sunshine and attracted a large crowd of rugby enthusiasts.

Originally scheduled for June 7, the match was postponed following the death of Pirates player Sydney Gongodyo.

Determined to honour their fallen teammate, the Pirates produced a spirited performance to secure a 12-point victory and take a significant step towards the final.

Following a moment of silence in memory of Gongodyo, the game got underway at a high intensity, with both sides eager to gain an early advantage. Stanbic Black Pirates started brightly and controlled much of the opening exchanges.

Their dominance was rewarded when William Nkore successfully converted a penalty to hand the Bweyogerere-based side an early lead.

The Pirates continued to apply pressure and force errors from the hosts, with Eric Mulamula adding another penalty to extend the advantage. Mulamula’s influential display later earned him the Man of the Match award.

Heathens struggled to find their rhythm in the opening half, with several knock-ons disrupting their attacking efforts and preventing them from getting points on the board as the Pirates headed into the break with a comfortable lead.

The hosts returned for the second half with renewed energy and reduced the deficit through a Malcolm Okello penalty, giving Heathens hope of a comeback.

However, the Pirates responded impressively. Sustained pressure eventually resulted in a try from Alex Aturinda, before Timothy Kisiga added the conversion to stretch the lead to 15-3.

The visitors continued to dominate possession and territory for large periods of the second half, but Heathens’ resilient defence prevented further damage and ensured the tie remains alive heading into the return leg.

The two sides will meet again on June 20 at Kings Park Arena for the decisive second leg.

The winner on aggregate will advance to the final, where Toyota Buffaloes await after eliminating Makerere Impis to secure their place in the championship match.