Kalavango power past Yaros
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday March 28, 2022 16:00
The mini league saw a number of matches played in Gaborone and Mahalapye as volleyball kicked into full gear after almost three years of inaction. Played before a lively atmosphere, Kalavango proved too strong for Yaros Academy in a one-sided affair. However, Yaros gave a good account despite being at the receiving end of nasty blows from the more experienced Kalavango.
Kalavango were the first to draw blood from the first serve but Yaros retaliated from a serve of their own through Kulani Tsamaesi a few minutes later. Kalavango scored an own goal after a pass from outside hitter, Ngirl Wright was misread by her teammates. Kalavango's experience with the likes of Monica Alfred was telling on the day, while Yaros fielded youngsters. Towards the end of the first set, Wright punished Yaros with powerful serves. The Yaros libero was unable to contain the serves.
Yaros managed to find their footing soon after launching an attack but Boemo Bosaakane cleared. Yaros were back at it with Gomotsegang Mosiapitso punishing Kalavango at the far field. Kalavango rotated Bosaakane with Alfred in front of the net to assist the libero and also score points. The second set was not different with Kalavango continuing to punish Yaros. Mildred Botsang was unstoppable with her flying manoeuvers and Yaros was not able to block her attacks. She was able to take advantage of sets and her flying ability was amazing. Yaros managed to scrap through some points as Kalavango lost focus. The third set was also a feast party for Kalavango with the side in full control attacking, serving and setting with confidence. Speaking to Sport Monitor, Yaros coach France Mashamaite said their preparations were disturbed by rainfall during the week. “Coming from last weekend losing 3-2 to Kutlwano but today losing 3-0 was unexpected. But at the same time it was expected because we used youngsters.
Most of our senior players left the club during transfer window. Our opponents were more prepared than us and brought all their star players,” he said. Mashamaite said he was impressed by the fight that was put up by his players.
He said getting some points from Kalavango was an achievement. Next weekend Yaros take on another powerhouse, BDF VI. “We expect a tough game against BDF. My players just have to go out there and enjoy themselves. They are still young and they are making names for themselves,” he said. Kalavango captain, Alfred said it was not an easy match because it has been long without action. She said some players are still missing in action and are now committed elsewhere away from volleyball. “We are still to gel. That means training together so that we can come up with a good game plan.
Next weekend we have tough assignments against Kutlwano and BDF. Those are the games that we can judge ourselves against,” she said. Teams Yaros: Karabo Mohabano, Mosiapitso, Annette Tebogo, Omaatla Sametsi, Matshidiso Nombolo, Tiny Maiketso and Laone Tumelo. Coach: France Mashamaite. Kalavango: Keneilwe Albert, Collin Moithei, Bosaakane, Wabongwa Boima, Wright, Botsang and Onalenna Motswagole. Coach: Isaac Thenjelani.
Kalavango: 3 Yaros: 0