18 May 2017

Fresh from crushing Green Lovers 6-2 in a midweek encounter at Serowe Sports Complex, BTC Premiership leaders, Township Rollers now have a chance to wrap up a record extending 15th top flight league title this weekend.

If Rollers emerge victorious against Black Forest tomorrow, and second placed Jwaneng Galaxy, who are two points behind, fail to beat Gaborone United, then the Gaborone west giants would be crowned champions with one match to spare.

Mapalastina, who are unbeaten in the league since November last year, clash with the Mmankgodi based side in an away match at the National Stadium, while Galaxy who stumbled against Orapa United in midweek, will simultaneously welcome the Reds who will be battling to secure a top eight spot at the Galaxy Stadium.

Rollers public relations officer, Bafana Pheto said their big win over Green Lovers was a welcome morale boost for the players, and that they were now focussed on getting the job done in their last two matches.

“We have prepared well for the Black Forest match. We are aware that they gave us a tough match in the first round, but we are looking to win the league and it is a must win game for us. Our players are physically and psychologically ready for the match,” Pheto said in an interview.

Forest gave Rollers a run for their money in the two teams’ first ever league meeting in October.

Rollers were forced to come from behind and settle for a draw through goals by Kekaetswe Moloi and Lemponye Tshireletso after Lynoth Chikuhwa and Thatayaone Kgamanyane had given Forest a shock lead.

However, Pheto said a repeat of that scenario was unlikely as Mapalastina want to defend the title.

“We are aware that we could win the league this weekend if Galaxy fail to beat GU, but we want to do our job for ourselves,” he said.

Rollers will be boosted by the return of anchorman Lawrence Majawa and leftback Edwin Olerile after the two experienced players missed the Lovers match through suspension.

Pheto said apart from long-term absentees, Galabgwe Moyana and Edwin Moalosi, all his players would be available tomorrow.

However, Rapelang Tsatsilebe’s men are expected to give Rollers a run for their money because they are gunning for a top eight finish.

Forest are currently on position nine with 38 points and would qualify for the top eight competition next season if they win their remaining two matches.

In other matches tomorrow, Nico United will be battling to stave off relegation when they host Sankoyo Bush Bucks in Selebi Phikwe.

Police XI welcomes Gilport Lions in Otse, Extension Gunners host Green Lovers in Lobatse while Mochudi Centre Chiefs welcome Orapa United in Molepolole. ENDS