13 Jan 2020

- The battle for league honours and survival took another twist at the weekend.

The much anticipated Gaborone derby between Notwane and Township Rollers lived up to its billing in a match that wrapped up opening games after the festive break.

At the end of the intensive 90 minutes, it was the Blue nation who had the longest laugh as they grabbed all the maximum points and bragging rights after a hard fought 3-1 victory.

Despite languishing second bottom of the league log, Notwane showed character and had little respect for their much fancied opponents.

After 16 outings, Notwane managed to collect a paltry 10 points, while Rollers victory pushed them to close the top four bracket.

Two beautiful free kicks in the first half separated the two sides. Mphoyamodimo Keiponye struck a pretty shot outside the box beyond Keeagile Kgosipula’s reach and Toronto as Notwane is fondly known, took an early lead.

Five minutes earlier, Lemponye Tshireletso had fluffed a golden moment to put Popa on the driving seat.

Rollers’ left back, Onkarabile Ratanang cancelled out Keiponye’s goal with another mouthwatering free-kick to level matters.

Rollers striker, Tumisang Orebonye and former Notwane star player, Tlhalefo Molebatsi extended the lead in the second half to hand Popa the much needed maximum points.

In Lobatse, Extension Gunners continued their poor run after succumbing to a 1-4 defeat to Police XI.

Log leaders, Orapa United got the shock of their lives when they succumbed to a 0-1 defeat at the hands of the rejuvenated Prisons XI.

Security Systems, who started the campaign like a house of fire, shared the spoils with struggling Molepolole City Stars.

Morupule Wanderers compounded Serowe-based Miscellaneous’ woes with a 3-0 drubbing.

In Francistown, newly appointed Tafic mentor, Stanley Mwanga got a rude awakening as visiting BDF XI put five past his charges.

Gilport Lions sank deeper into the relegation zone after being walloped by a solitary goal by visiting BR Highlanders, while Jwaneng Galaxy moved a step closer to the log leaders after beating Gaborone United 3-1. ENDS