Sports

Tough test for Chiefs, Notwane

In buoyant mood: Chiefs supporters will be happy their team has started the season well
 
In buoyant mood: Chiefs supporters will be happy their team has started the season well

The two former Premier League giants had to come from behind last weekend but ensured they start the league on a positive note. Chiefs registered a 5-2 win away to Union Flamengo Santos while Notwane defeated Black Rangers 3-1 away in Tsabong. Magosi’s head coach, Thatayamodimo Tebele has already predicted a tough terrain following the win over Santos last weekend. He feels his side might become a target after last Saturday’s win which requires his charges to be always prepared.

The first test starts tomorrow against URI Black Forest who also registered a win in their opening match last weekend against Debswana Young Stars. The match, scheduled to take place at River Plate ground, already promises to attract a capacity crowd with the host team having lined up some activities before and after the match. This week, the club announced a fundraising committee, which has already hit the ground running with fundraising initiatives.

Both Chiefs and Forest appear to be ruthless going forward as evidenced by their score lines in the last matches. Magosi’s attacking options in particular look to be in abundance after introducing two exciting players, Goitseone Bokhutlo and Thabiso Tebatso in the second half against Santos who completely changed the complexion of the game. Tebatso went on to grab a brace after replacing experienced left winger, Galabgwe Moyana. In the middle of the park, Magosi appeared to have found a perfect replacement for last season’s captain, Arnold Mampori in Wendy Thuso. The diminutive player came on in the second half and gave Chiefs shape in the midfield, which eventually produced three more goals. Forest on the other hand also boast experienced players who have proven their reliability once again. Captain Mogomotsi Kerebotswe was on the score sheet against Young Stars while Terrence Mandaza’s scoring prowess is still intact.

As it stands, Chiefs lead the log with a superior goal difference while Forest are in position four. At Holy Ghost Park, Notwane will hope to maintain their good start in the lower division when they host Matebejana. Against Rangers last weekend, Notwane had to come from behind with goals from long-serving South African midfielder, Sithembile Mbuqe, Remmington Masuku, and Thato Gabatlhokwe. Matebejana started their campaign with a draw against Tlokweng United. Another fixture that promises fireworks is between VTM and Matebele, which takes place at the VTM stadium. The home side’s debut in the First Division ended with a loss to CRACKiT City Polar.

Against Matebele, they face a team that registered a 4-1 win over Broadhurst United. At SSG ground, Broadhurst United and Santos will face off hoping to redeem themselves after heavy defeats last weekend while Tlokweng United will be home to City Polar. Young Stars take the long trip to Tsabong to face Black Rangers.