Mqondisi Dube
6 November 2009
Former champions, Mochudi Centre Chiefs and youthful rivals, Uniao Flamengo Santos would both want to keep within touching distance of be MOBILE Premier League log leaders, Township Rollers when they clash in an anticipated encounter at the University of Botswana (UB) Stadium tonight. Kick off is 7.30pm.
Chiefs lost ground in the title race last weekend when they were held to a 2-2 draw by minnows, Jwaneng Comets at the Molepolole Sports Complex. On the other hand, Rollers won to go seven points clear of their bitter rivals.
Although Chiefs appear like championship material, they are a far cry from the invincible crack side that powered its way to a maiden league title in the 2007-2008 season. After their 2-2 draw against Comets, there were reports of discontent from the chairman, Ernest Molome who is said to have given his technical team a dressing down in full view of the supporters and players.
While their title chase has not completely gone off the rails, much is expected of a still formidable Chiefs' side. The Kgatleng side has dropped points along the way but importantly, it is the only unbeaten side in the new campaign. However, any slip up against a difficult Santos' side might peg Chiefs further back in the title race.
The two sides are level on eight points, but Chiefs is fourth on a superior goal difference. Santos are a place behind but have played six games, two more than Chiefs.
The clubs' last meeting was in the Coca -Cola Cup semi-final where the Gabane side upset the form book with a 3-2 win over their colourful opponents. Mogakolodi 'Tsotso' Ngele and his brother, Godfrey Ngele ran riot that afternoon although a late brilliant free kick from then captain, Pontsho Moloi ensured a nervy finish for the eventual Coca -Cola Cup winners.
Moloi is gone and Chiefs' inspiration has to come from his brother Dirang. He put on a decent display in the match against Comets and caused a few headaches. He is expected to drive the Chiefs' engine room with new Zambian recruit, Musonda Mweuka hoping to keep his early impressive scoring form. The striker has rattled the net three times in two games. Sekhana 'Nandos' Koko provides good support and his pace should prove a handful for Clever Hunda's Santos. New Chiefs' coach, Wesley Mondo has started sitting on the bench after his work permit was sorted out. He should provide the needed technical guidance after the departure of Beston Chambeshi.
Santos' main men should be Farisai Nyamunamwendo, Thato 'Yellow' Boleseng and Godfrey Ngele with goalkeeper, Ola Tsae likely to face a busy afternoon from marauding Chiefs' forwards. On the bench, tactical decisions from both Mondo and Hunda would be key in deciding the tie. For Hunda, if he strangles the Chiefs' midfield, half of his job will be done, while closing spaces quickly will be key for Mondo's boys.
In tonight's other fixture, Police XI, fresh from a last minute morale-sapping 1-0 defeat to Extension Gunners face crisis-ridden, BMC at the Molepolole Sports Complex. The 'meat boys' recently fired their coach, Boyo 'Oris' Radipotsane who in turn lamented the working environment at the club describing it as 'un-conducive'.
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