Walukuba Barbarians win Kigezi 7s

Kigezi 7s final results

Walukuba 22 Jinja Hippos 12

As teams prepare for the National Rugby 7s later this year, Walukuba Barbarians sent a clear message to their elder brothers Jinja Hippos by beating them 22-12 to win the Guiness Kigezi 7s in Kabale.

It was a tightly contested game that gave Walukuba motivation and confidence that they could battle the big boys in the National 7s circuit in August, according to coach Leonard Lubambula.

“Well, it was a worthy trip for the boys and the team, a few key players missed out in this tournament but it created room for new players which was good depth development for our club 7s team,” Lubambula noted.

“Meeting Hippos in the final is a plus to rugby development in Jinja but also a good platform for barbarians to gauge their strength against a strong side as we enter into the 7s window.”

Defending champions Lifeguard Rams produced the tournament's top scorer and Most Valuable Players Opilleni Hossana and Edrine Obbo respectively.

Guinness brand manager Roy Tumwizere promised continued support for the tournament to grow the sport in the region.

In the women's category, the Thunderbirds emerged as the overall winners in the round-robin format with Comfort Angayika emerging as the top scorer and MVP of the tournament.  

Kobs, Rhinos, Warriors, Rams, Jinja Hippos, Kigezi Silverbacks, Tooro Lions, Naguru Home Boys, Kigezi Queens, Jaguars, Lady Swans, Lions De Fer, 1000 Hills, Rwamagana Hippos and Kamonyi Panthers participated in the tournament.