09 Feb 2017

Debswana First Division South log leaders, Sharps are set to take on Notwane Football Club this Sunday at Lesirane Grounds in the second round after playing against each other last week.

In their first round encounter last weekend, Sharps humiliated Notwane 3-0 and it remains to be seen if the latter would be able to turn the tables and redeem their pride.

Sharps have played 11 games, won seven,  drew three,  lost one and are at the summit of the log with 24 points, while Notwane are on position five with 17 points out of 11 games. They have won four, drawn five and  lost two.

However, Sharps are well aware that the Sunday encounter might be a totally different ball game as Notwane have good arsenal to handle their opponents.

Sharps coach, Pio Paul said his team had prepared well to meet Notwane yet again, adding that both the technical and players were cognisant of the importance of winning the encounter.

“Look, we are at position one with 24 points only seven points separates us with Notwane. Therefore it would be very important for us to extend the lead, if we are to realise our dreams of gaining promotion to the elite league,” Paul said.

He said morale on camp was moderate because he had warned his players against being over confident because they were going to play an away game and therefore important to collect maximum points.

Again, he said he respected Notwane given their good play in the previous encounter while, on the day his side missed a lot of scoring opportunities, hence he had roped in experienced players such as Jomo Moatlhaping to bury all the chances.

Notwane coach, George Mogopodi on the other hand appluaded his side for playing well in their last game against Sharps even though they could not utilise their scoring opportunities.

“All in all they were not bad. We just have to correct the few mistakes that we committed and rectify and move forward,” Mogopodi said.

He said their preparations for the second round had been going well and  there would be no major changes in the last week squad.

However, he emphasised the need for the players to change their mindset.

Further, Mogopodi highlighted the importance of treating all games with respect and enthusiasm given that their ultimate goal was to win all their games and gain promotion back to the premiership.

On Saturday, Mochudi Rovers will host Modipane United at Mochudi, Mogoditshane Fighters will face UFS Santos at Fighters grounds while Skoon Boys will travel to Tlokweng VDC Grounds for a date with Black Peril.

On Sunday, SSG grounds will turn into a battle field between Prisons and Matebejane while Letlapeng and Lesirane will play at Siga grounds in Ramotswa. ENDS