“Pirates have not had the best history, but it’s something we have started to work on.” Said Pirates’ captain Isaac Massa
The Stanbic Black Pirates wrote the first page of their history book after being crowned 2023 Nile Special Premiership League champions.
Pirates claimed their second league title in style, producing a historically dominant display to beat KOBs 7-23 in the “winner takes it all” season finale at legends.
It was a one-sided affair in the first half as the Sea Robbers mounted pressure on their hosts, showcasing relentless attack and running riot in KOBs’ half for the majority of the first forty minutes.
Ivan Magomu, being faultless with his boot on the day, was the standout performer of the game. The skipper converted three penalties and managed two conversions to amount to a 13 points haul against KOBs.
Magomu’s three first half penalties piled up a 9-0 lead for his team going into the break after Joseph Aredo’s failed attempt at poles.
Even with KOBs fighting to get themselves back into the contest, the second half saw more of Pirates’ dominance as they continued to pile on the pressure.
Eighth man Alex Aturinda scored the game’s first try with a successful conversion from Magomu, extending Pirates’ lead 0-16, effectively opening a door for KOBs’ hopes of a comeback to start their exit.
Desire Ayera then added another try for Pirates to make it 23, before KOBs finally got on the scoreboard with a late try from Karim Arinaitwe.
Despite the late consolation try, it was a comprehensive victory for Pirates, who one would say, deserved their title win.
They were the better team throughout the contest, and arguably the best team throughout the season, and this performance was a fitting way to cap off a successful campaign.
“It was a difficult game and we had to approach it in a very focused manner.” Said Isaac Massa.
“Today the boys came in ready, everyone knew what we needed and we needed this more than them (KOBs), and at the end of the day, the best team won.” He added.
For KOBs, it was another disappointing end to the season, as they were unable to complete a league double over the Sea Robbers.
The defeat will no doubt sting as KOBs finish the season third behind winners-Pirates, and second placed Heathens.
