05 Oct 2015

The Gaborone derby between Gaborone United (GU) and Township Rollers ended in a stalemate on Saturday evening (October 3).

Rollers dominated the first half and created a lot of scoring opportunities, which were put to waste. In the second half, GU dictated terms as they did not only enjoy ball possession, but also managed to dismantle Popa’s stubborn midfield.

GU’s Hendrick Moyo, Mpho Kgaswane, Ntesang Simanyana and Alphonse Modisaotsile were handful for Mapalastina who struggled to contain them. The result meant that Rollers held on to their unbeaten run.

They have won six games and drew three. Thus they continued to be perched at the top of the league log with 21 points. GU needed a win against Rollers to improve their log standings as they were in position seven with 15 points. They have won four games, drew three and lost two.

 The two coaches seemed not to be worried by the result. Rollers coach, Mark Harrison said this was a typical derby game, though he was of the view that his side could have sealed the game in the first 30 minutes.

He said the players did not utilise the scoring opportunities they created, adding that for him, a draw was a fair result, given that in a derby, no team would want to lose bragging rights.

“We walked away with our pride unhurt, as we are still at the top of the league. We are still unbeaten. All in all, a derby is like blood and thunder,” he said. Rahman Gumbo echoed sentiments that a draw was a fair result.

He said both the teams gave their best, adding that he was happy that they managed to absorb Rollers’ pressure more especially in the first half.

“Our game plan was to let them play in the first half and if you look at Rollers, they have quality players, and we knew that they were going to attack. We resorted to absorbing the pressure first half, and kept their supporters quiet in the second half,” he said.

In other games played on Saturday, Jwaneng Galaxy beat Sankoyo Bush Bucks 2-0 while Extension Gunners lost 0-1 to Green Lovers. Miscellaneous recorded a 1-0 victory against Police XI, while BDF XI increased FC Satmos woes beating them 1-0.

Nico United and Gilport Lions played to a one-all draw. ends