Tshepo Molwane
4 April 2008
Gaborone — Mochudi Centre Chiefs' captain Pontsho Moloi, Mpho 'Jomo' Mabogo, Oteng Moalosi, Jerome 'JJ' Ramatlhakwana and goalkeeper Noah Maposa have been showered with praises for the club's success this season. But four other players have contributed immensely to the cause but have not been given due attention. Staff Writer Tshepo Molwane examines the unsung heroes.
Othusitse 'Jabu' Pilane
He is a down to earth star and a hard-worker. Jabu is underrated but his contribution this season has been immense. Without doubt, he makes Magosi tick with his superb runs down the right flank. In his absence, Magosi lack creativity on the right.
This season, the youngster has been one of the best wingers in the league. He has scored some important goals along the way. He has the ability to help in defence when his side is under pressure. He can be a valuable addition to the national team. He is in the early 20s and he can be groomed for the future.
Elijah 'Hasler' Phiriepa
A holding midfielder with a lot of potential. When he was signed from Gaborone United (GU), many people doubted his talent especially because veteran midfielder Noah 'Stooge' Kareng was still at Chiefs. But this season, Phiriepa has shown that he is a star and kept Kareng on the sidelines. These days, Magosi can hardly take to the field without the Bokaa-born defensive midfielder. He brings shape to Magosi midfield and can neutralise his opponents with ease. Just like Jabu, he has a down-to-earth attitude.
Given 'Stability Unit' Mpundu
He was brought to Magosi at the start of the season after the Kgatleng giants threw away the league title last season. Lack of stability in the Chiefs' rearguard cost them dearly and they had to watch as ECCO City Greens ran away with the title. But this season, Magosi have conceded 15 goals only in 24 games thanks to the stability Mpundu has brought at the back. He is a good reader of the game and has hardly put his foot wrong this season. He is a clean defender with very few cautions. He has formed a good combination with Tshepo 'Talk-Talk' Motlhabankwe and Gobonyeone 'Shoes' Selefa at the back. The trio has proved a handful for the opposition.
James 'Suspension' Kachinga
When Chiefs lost Under-23 left-back, Boniface Makolo to Township Rollers, supporters wondered who will fill the position. This is because there was no proven left-back in the team as most of the players fielded in the position were right-footed. But Chiefs' management moved quickly to secure the services of Kachinga and he has not disappointed. The Zambian is an attack-minded defender and a good crosser of the ball. The only disappointing thing about Kachinga is his discipline. This season, he has been sent off twice - against Boteti Young Fighters and Gaborone United.
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