Stanbic Black Pirates produced a dominant display at Kingspark Arena, defeating Makerere Impis 31–9 in a Week 6 fixture of the 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership.
From the opening whistle, the Pirates imposed their authority on the game, combining relentless forward power with an adventurous backline that kept the visitors trapped deep in their own half. Makerere Impis managed to put points on the board through penalty kicks, but breaking through the Pirates’ well-organized defence proved nearly impossible.
Fly-half Allan Karuhanga delivered a masterclass performance to earn the Man of the Match award. With calm control and tactical awareness, Karuhanga dictated the tempo of the game, pinning the Impis back with precise kicks while guiding the Pirates’ attacking movements.
February Player of the Month Emong Eliphaz once again lived up to expectations with an influential showing. The energetic playmaker constantly kept the Pirates on the front foot, orchestrating phases of play and ensuring sustained pressure on the Makerere side.
Captain Isaac Massa was equally outstanding, marshaling the defence with authority and delivering a series of crucial tackles that kept the Impis attack in check. Strong contributions also came from Haruna Muhammad, Karuhanga, and the Pirates’ forward pack, who dominated the scrums, breakdowns and lineouts throughout the encounter.
Speaking after the match, senior Pirates player Alema Ruhweza, popularly known as Diddy, said the team remains determined to maintain its momentum at the top of the standings.
“We are happy to be leading the table at this stage of the season,” Ruhweza said. “But the competition is very tight, and we know every game counts. Our focus is to stay consistent, keep improving, and keep pushing as a team.”
The victory keeps Stanbic Black Pirates at the summit of the table after six rounds with 24 points from five wins and one loss. Buffaloes are close behind with 23 points, while Kobs sit third with 22 points, underlining the intense battle developing at the top of the league.
Stanbic Bank Uganda Marketing Manager for FlexiPay Jackie Abwol commended the Pirates for their impressive performance and reaffirmed the bank’s support for local rugby.
“We are proud to see the Pirates performing at such a high level,” Abwol said. “Through Stanbic FlexiPay, we remain committed to supporting Ugandan rugby and creating opportunities that help grow the sport and connect communities.”
Elsewhere in the standings, Heathens occupy fourth place with 21 points, followed by Mongers with 20. Victoria Sharks are sixth on 19 points, while Walukuba Barbarians and Makerere Impis share seventh place with 14 points each. Hippos have collected 8 points, Rhinos sit on 5, while Kakira Simbas and Warriors remain without a point this season.
Uganda Rugby Premiership – Week 6 Results
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Kakira Simbas 11–52 Kobs
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Hippos 19–34 Walukuba Barbarians
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Stanbic Black Pirates 31–09 Makerere Impis
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Mongers 20–00 Warriors
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Rhinos 15–20 Buffaloes
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Victoria Sharks 05–30 Heathens
