21 Aug 2018

Township Rollers now have to put the CAF Champions League group stages exit behind them as they begin their BTC Premiership title defence against tough opponents Black Forest at the Molepolole Sports Complex this afternoon.

Rollers’ already fading hopes in the continental competition, were dealt a permanent blow on August 17 as Egyptian giants, Al Ahly defeated Esperance in a top of the table clash that saw them summit the group on equal points with Esperance but with an edge over the head to head results with the Tunisians.

The result meant basement dwellers, Kampala Capital City Authority and Township Rollers had less to play for except a better finish in the group stages.

It was the Ugandan side that bagged all maximum points as they left it  till the 83th minute to score the solitary and deciding goal of the match.

Rollers still have a dead rubber fixture against Esperance, who have all to play for in their last fixture as they eye a top spot qualification.

Meanwhile, the Gaborone giants will have to set their eyes on the league opener against Black Forest who in the past season, proved to be banana skin to the so called big clubs.

Rollers will be hoping to have a full squad at their disposal as their quest for defending the title looms large.

The blue nation will however be without their gaffer, who will be out of the country to attend family commitments but is expected back in charge on August 27, before their last CAF Champions League game against Esperance.

Goalkeeper coach, Thabo Motang and assistant coach Leutlwetse Tshireletso are expected to hold the fort for the Serbian during his brief absence.

Masule’s waived suspension will give Rollers options, as first choice goalkeeper Keagile Kgosipula, is still struggling with a shoulder injury. However Wagare Dikago has proved equally fit for selection.

Rollers have also bolstered their squad to add more depth with fresh signings like Mothusi Cooper and Tumisang Orebonye, who will be keen on giving the caretakers plenty to ponder as they take on Forest.

Meanwhile, Edwin Moalosi will be buoyed by his recent double swoop of awards for last season as he was voted the BTC Premiership Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season.  

On other hand, Black Forest will surely be eyeing Rollers’ scalp to begin their campaign on a high but the Mmakgodi-based side would have to be up for the task, especially after losing a few regular first team players in the transfer window. ENDS