Betway Kobs didn't have to break any sweat over the weekend as opponents Jinja Hippos failed to make it to Legends Rugby Grounds for the Nile Special Rugby League game on Saturday.
The Legends outfit hence were awarded a walkover (28-0) to momentarily lead the table before Buzz Pirates' 13-03 win over defending champions Hima Cement Heathens.
In an email sent to the Uganda Rugby Union by the Jinja side on Monday morning, financial constraints led to the forfeiture.
"On behalf of Jinja Hippos Rugby Club, we were unable to play a scheduled away game on 10-02-18 against KOBS at legends rugby grounds, reason we were constrained without enough money to facilitate the team to travel for the away game on that date," part of the email from Hippos to the union read.
Hippos had earlier played three consecutive games on the road and couldn't raise funds for the trip to Legends.
The side also indicated that they would like to have the fixture rescheduled to a more convenient date.
For Pirates, it was business as usual when they faced off with Heathens at Kyadondo.
Bobby Musinguzi's charges battered Heathens into submission to stay top of the log.
Having ascended to the top of the table after defeating Kobs last month, the Sea Robbers have held firm to their position.
Joel Anguyo scored a penalty and converted Harunah Muhammad's try as the table leaders won their fourth in a row against Heathens.
Harunah's drop goal in the first half was the highlight prior to an error-loaded second half.
Heathens will have themselves to blame after a second half full of unforced handling errors.
Not even the numerical advantage could help Muhammad Athiyo's charges. With Anguyo sent to the sin bin after restart, Heathens threatened in attack but we're let down by their butter fingers on several occasions.
The loss was Heathens' fourth of the season and are now 10 points off the pace in the title race.
Weekend results:
Heathens 03-13 Pirates
Rhinos 81-08 Impis
Mongers 13-12 Warriors
Buffaloes 24-10 Rams
Betway Kobs 28-0 Hippos (Walkover)