Heathens need to get back to winning ways against Rhinos

The last time the Heathens won a 15s game of rugby was on March 14 against the Victoria Sharks, which is more than a month ago.

During that stretch, the Heathens have lost to the Buffaloes, Kabras Sugar RFC in the Enterprise Cup, and the KOBs just before the league break.

The three losses are uncharacteristic of the most decorated club in Ugandan rugby, and point to a crisis that is yet to be addressed by coach Tolbert Onyango and his charges.

On the other hand, the Rhinos have only managed one win in seven games so far this season, as they’ve struggled to find suitable replacements for players like Allan Olango and Davis Shimwa, who they lost during the transfer market.

The poor run of games should be a cause for concern for coach Martial Tchumkam, who has to either dig his side out of the relegation playoff spots or brace them for a gruelling relegation playoff battle if things do not change.

However, this is likely not to be the weekend when the Rhinos pick up another win. They go away to Kyadondo Rugby Club, a place where the Heathens famously sunk the Pirate ship this season. This home advantage is important for the Heathens, who will look to start their winning streak to book a top 4 spot on the table, likely dislodging a Mongers side they have yet to play this season.

The Heathens squad is almost fully fit and available. They have struggled a bit with the front row of Santos Senteza, Jude Jjuuko and Sylvester Munguacel playing consistently together. However, the biggest threat from the Heathens shall be in their backline, which is fully stacked with players like Aaron Ofoyrwoth and Nobert Okeny ready to go as soon as they are called upon, while players like Innocent Thomas Gwokto and Matthew Musasizi are still waiting on the sidelines.

There is a glimmer of hope for the Rhinos for the rest of their season. After the Heathens game, they have the Kakira Simbas, Warriors and Hippos as their remaining opponents, all members of the bottom 4 and relegation candidates, as it stands.  

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