Uganda Sevens have got off to a flying start in the second round of the 2023 World Rugby Challenger Series, defeating Brazil 31-07 in their opening pool B game played on the morning of 28th April, 2023 at Markötter Stadium, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
The Ugandan side showed impressive resilience in the face of sustained Brazilian pressure early on, eventually taking control of the game and putting on an impressive display of attacking rugby in the second half.
Brazil started the game strongly, dominating possession and territory in the opening exchanges, tasking the Ugandan defence to outwork themselves.
The South Americans were quick to take advantage of their early momentum, scoring the first try of the match to take a 7-0 lead.
Uganda were quick to respond immediately at the restart when Nobert Okeny managed to score his sixth try over the two weekends of the tournament, levelling the score at 7-7.
The second half was a different story altogether, with African Champions taking control of the game and dominating possession and territory. The African side were clinical in attack, scoring four tries in the second half to secure a comfortable victory.
A double from Aaron Ofoywroth and a single each for Allan Olango and Captain Michael Wokorach in the second half sealed the first victory for the Cranes.
Aaron Ofoywroth’s performance was particularly impressive. He scored two tries and assisted two others, having a direct contribution in four of the five tries.
His quick thinking and excellent distribution skills were crucial in unlocking the Brazilian defence, he undoubtedly has and continues to be a key player for Cranes in their quest to win this campaign.
They will take great confidence from their impressive victory over Brazil, but they know that they will need to maintain their focus and intensity if they are to progress to the knockout stages of the competition and eventually play in the final as they have planned.
They play their next game against Korea at 14:10 hrs EAT.
