Until last Saturday, when Kobs rugby club lost 20-34 to Rhinos in the league, their last defeat against the same opponent had happened in 2003 ,when they lost 17-24.
Howerver, last weekend’s loss has emerged as a point of reckoning, with Kobs firing Italian coach Mirko Morlin. This is despite leading them to the league title last season.Before Morlin was sacked, he had told The Observer that his players needed to focus more on the team’s set strategy to get the results. Based on how they fell into Rhinos trap, there were signs that Kobs did not exploit its own strengths.
Kobs’ Brian Odong, who is also the Rugby Cranes captain, agreed with his former coach’s views, saying there had been a lot of inconsistence, showcased by numerous unforced errors. These have denied them more comfortable and convincing wins prior.
In fact, this shortcoming showed in earlier games, like the one against Entebbe Mongers. This is a game in which Kobs failed to register a bonus point as had been expected. As a result, they were left to play catch-up against formidable opposition in Heathens, Pirates and now Rhinos.
Kobs legend Edmund Tumusiime has been appointed to replace Morlin. He will not have much honeymoon time considering the expectations at Kobs. With his main challengers Heathens and Rhinos unbeaten after four games, Tumusiime will have to do some magic for Kobs to successfully defend their 2015/2016 league title.
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