16 Jan 2017

Township Rollers came from behind to force a 3-1 victory over Gilport Lions in a BTC Premiership played at National Stadium on January 14.

Gilport approached the game with a clear intent of embarrassing the defending champions and they were the first to draw blood in the opening minutes of the game after Rollers defensive error. Patrick Kaunda did not waste time but punished them on the 10th minute.

The early goal motivated Gilport Lions, as they enjoyed more ball possession, in the event closing Township Rollers dangerous moves.

However things changed on the 19th minute after Gilport goal minder,Moatlhodi Ndana failed to deal with Segolame Boy's shot and Rollers captain Mmaano Ditshupo capitalised on the re-bound to level matters.

Immediately after the goal, both teams continued to move forward looking for a leading goal, but it was Rollers who managed to net the second goal after Gilport Lions defence failed dismally to clear a ball in their goal mouth and Terrance Mandaza put his team on the driving seat to make it 2-1.

The game went into half time with Popa leading and after break, Gilport came back in a  fighting spirit. However, six minutes before full time, Lemponye Tshireletso extended Popa lead making it 3-1.

Township Rollers care-taker coach Mogomotsi Mpote said in an interview that he was happy with his players’ performance.

He said the encounter was not easy given that it was the first game of the year, and normally after the break the fitness level of players is always not good.

“I am happy they managed to secure three valuable points. They showed a lot of character. That's the most important thing,” he said.
Furthermore, Mpote said they would continue to work on the players’ mental strength and their application to work tactically and understand that they were good players and they can work together and win games.

Gilport coach, Paradzayi Mandivenga on the other hand said despite losing the game his players applied themselves well.

He said during the transfer window he lost some of the players and they were now in a re-building exercise.

“Currently we are trying a new combination. Like I said we lost all of my entire front. We will get there. We will still win games and I still need more players to beef my squad,” he said. BOPA