Mqondisi Dube
3 July 2009
Township Rollers, struggling for rhythm in the be MOBILE Premier League, are in danger of bombing out of the top five on the log as they face a buoyant ECCO City Greens in Molepolole tomorrow.
Rollers have watched a season that started off promisingly, turn into a nightmare after a series of inconsistent results. Popa's season took off brilliantly and the 4-1 drubbing of defending champions, Mochudi Centre Chiefs saw Rollers emerge as favourites for the title.
But a midseason slump has relegated the giants to position five and defeat against ECCO tomorrow might see them move further down the ladder.
The 'Green Machine' from Francistown is in a mean mood after demolishing Mogoditshane Fighters 6-3 in their last visit to Molepolole.
Rollers are aware of the attacking prowess of ECCO, with Malepa 'Chippa' Bolelang leading the onslaught. The gangly Mandlaenkosi 'Sukenyetsa' Sibanda, Bonolo Fraiser and lately Robert Tamba ably support Bolelang. Sprightly midfielder, Master Masiku has been a revelation since joining from Nico United. The nine game unbeaten run, before the Coca-Cola Cup defeat to Chiefs was largely attributed to the team's attacking ability. Despite an intimidating attack, ECCO know that Rollers can rise to the occasion on their day. The Gaborone giants possess quality in all departments and ECCO might be in for a rude awakening. Rollers' last assignment against Nico United ended in agony as the Selebi-Phikwe side won 2-1. Coach Rahman Gumbo, who has had to do with largely new faces in the last two assignments, said he is rebuilding a formidable team for next season. This season his plans have been frustrated by the absence of key players. Talented striker, Mohammed Chawila, Lesego Molemogi and Joel Mogorosi are all out with injuries while Boitumelo Mafoko is abroad for trials.
Speed merchant, Mogorosi will be out for the rest of the season with a broken leg. With nothing to play for in this campaign, Gumbo has shifted focus to next season.
"I am trying to build a team for next season. I am working with committed players and I believe I will accomplish my mission," he said. The Zimbabwean would look for inspiration from former TASC midfielder, Tebogo Mothusi who played a blinder in his first game for Rollers. The left-footed midfielder should keep the supply lines open for Terrence Mandaza who has struggled to reproduce his form since the off-season switch from TASC. ECCO coach, Max 'Malume' Moyo hopes to continue with his team's good run since he took over. In other fixtures, struggling Boteti Young Fighters play TAFIC at the Itekeng Stadium hoping for a turnaround in fortunes.
Boteti managed to hold Extension Gunners to a 1-1 draw last weekend. There are reports of unrest in the Boteti camp because of financial difficulties. TAFIC salvaged some pride in their trip to Molepolole last weekend, beating First Division-bound, Naughty Boys 2-1.
Police XI, enjoying a purple patch, welcome Nico United in Lobatse tomorrow. The Jungle Kings have been in sparkling form winning their last three matches. The good run has seen Police XI ease into position six, just a point behind fifth-placed Rollers. It would be a battle of strugglers when 13th-placed Mogoditshane Fighters meet Great North Tigers (GNT). Tomorrow evening's battle is likely to give a clear indication as to which team would be relegated. Fighters are four points ahead of GNT who have played a game less.
All games kick-off at 3pm except the evening duel between Fighters and GNT at 7pm.
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