Day one of the National Rugby 7s, Tooro Circuit, showcased a series of shocking performances as mid-table teams displayed remarkable improvement in performances to defeat ‘top-rated sides’.

Perhaps the biggest shock of the day was the unexpected downfall of the most recent cup champions—Heathens, who failed to advance beyond the pool stage.

Heathens, who were the winners of the previous circuit (Rujumba 7s) at Kings Park, struggled to find their footing, managing only one victory in three games. A victory that came against an invitational side, Kigezi Silverbacks, winning it 55-00.

However, their lacklustre performance in their two other pool games saw them suffer narrow defeats at the hands of Impis and Rhinos, losing 21-20 and 17-10 respectively.

As a result of their shockingly unconvincing performance, Heathens now find themselves competing in the challenger cup, hoping to secure a modest position of at best 9th place in the ongoing circuit..

In pool A, Impis emerged as the leaders for the first time in this year’s series after winning all their games, Rhinos followed in second position while the Rujumba 7s champions—Heathens, settled for third place, with Kigezi Silverbacks trailing in fourth.

Meanwhile, Pool B also witnessed a surprising upset as two-time finalists—KOBs, fell to Rams in a closely contested match with a final score of 7-5.

Rams claimed the top spot in the pool, ahead of KOBs who were in second position.

This positioning sets up a quarterfinal clash between KOBs and Pirates, reminiscent of the Stone City 7s final, which was won by the Sea Robbers, and the Rujumba 7s semifinal, won by KOBs.

Mongers on the other end, proved to be another standout team, as they secured victory for the second time in a row against Jinja Hippos, prevailing 10-5 against the Nile Special 7s defending champions and moving on to top Pool D. They’ll be taking on Rhinos in their quarter final tie.

Quarterfinal fixtures
Impis Vs Hippos
Pirates Vs KOBs
Mongers Vs Rhinos
Rams Vs Buffaloes