TAFIC back to Premier League
Chakalisa Dube | Monday May 8, 2023 16:00
He was addressing a media scrum after TAFIC’s Debswana First Division North (FDN) encounter against Motlakase Power Dynamos played at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium. TAFIC won the match by a solitary goal to earn promotion to the Premier League with a match to spare. The win meant that TAFIC have attained an unassailable lead of 45 points. TAFIC talisman, Modise Modipe, returned to the team after a lengthy spell on the sidelines to score the decisive goal. He is also the top goal scorer in the FDN with 11 goals. According to Toteng, TAFIC owners have committed to adequately resource the club to maintain its status in the league.
TAFIC ARE owned by Petrohyper (PH), an oil and gas products firm. PH, who are owned by media shy Ndinabo Setaelo, acquired a 90% stake in the club late last year. Setaelo has been praised for bringing stability at the club. Those close to the club say players and technical team members often receive their monthly dues timely, unlike in the past. “All the planning, all the financials we do with him (Setaelo). We have his total backing. Supporters will not see TAFIC alternating between the FDN and Premier League. That will not happen. We will be very stable,” a confident Toteng said. He added: “This is the start of great things.
Last year we suffered a lot, learnt a lot. At the beginning of the season, we sat down and came up with a solid plan in terms of how we can improve things.” Toteng also pointed out that the club is operating on a three-year strategy adding that its first year was to win promotion to the Premier League. Under the plan, the club will use the second year to consolidate its status in league. The third year will see TAFIC fighting for honours. The youthful chairman also acknowledged the contribution made by highly regarded coach, Mohambi Saulosi. The latter was dismissed by the club in January after falling out with the executive. His departure caused friction between the supporters and the management because the club was cruising in the league. “Saulosi is a good coach. He played a very good part in what we have achieved. He left when we were four points ahead in the league. We cannot downplay his contribution. He deserves credit,” Toteng said.
Meanwhile, Chadibe and BR Highlanders will meet in Mahalapye to determine the second play-off spot. BR, who are second, have accumulated 39 points in the league so far while Chadibe have managed 37 points. BR must avoid defeat to maintain the second spot.