Charlotte Mudoola scored 26 points as Uganda beat Zambia 36-17 in the opening game of the Women’s Rugby World Cup Qualifiers on Tuesday.
The utility player who started at flyhalf scored a try with the rest of the points coming off her boot as the Lady Rugby Cranes registered a good start.
Angella Nanyonjo powered over for Uganda’s first try that was converted by Mudoola. The flyhalf would convert two penalties before scoring a try as the hosts led 20-00 at halftime.
Zambia who troubled Uganda every time they went to their backs scored first in the second half with outside center Jane Malisa breaking the line from her own 22.
The Lady Rugby Cranes, however, responded with a penalty from Mudoola and a try from skipper Peace Lekuru that was converted by Mudoola.
The Zambians kept putting the Lady Rugby Cranes under pressure and it paid off with Rennie Wilima running around the defense to score. Mary Lyamba couldn’t add the extras as her kick was short and wide.
Mudoola put the game to bed with a couple of penalties but Zambia were not done as Lyamba scored their third try under the uprights.
Uganda will take on their eternal rivals Kenya on Wdnesday (2nd November) next week.