Indiscipline troubles BFA

BOITUMELO KHUTSAFALO
Staff Writer | Thursday May 15, 2008 00:00

 

This comes in the wake of disciplinary action taken against Zebras' Jerome Ramatlhakwana recently.

According to BFA technical director, Losika Keatlholetswe, Ramatlhakwana was rough-tackled during a training session at Lekidi Football Centre. Keatlholetswe added that Ramatlhakwana's injury was attended to and it was realised that the injury was not that serious. He is said to have walked straight to the hostels without getting permission from national coach Colwyn Rowe. Ramatlhakwana was sent away from the camp but Keatlholetswe said since it was only a disciplinary action, he (Ramatlhakwana) could be recalled for national duty in future. 'We have written his club, Mochudi Centre Chiefs, regarding the action we took and told them that we will recall him in the future,' he added. The suspension comes at a time when the Zebras are preparing for the crucial away encounter against Zambia in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) this Saturday.

BFA chief executive officer (CEO) Tosh Kgotlele conceded that indiscipline among players is a challenge for them, adding that they need to do something about it. He indicated that they are trying to find out what problems the players have. But clubs are also expected to take the lead in curbing indiscipline, which is also a big problem in various clubs.

Meanwhile, in the absence of Ramatlhakwana, Moemedi Moatlhaping, Malepa Bolelang, Pontsho Moloi and Mpho Mabogo will be expected to carry the burden of ensuring that the Zebras score goals in Zambia. Coach Rowe emphasised the need to get an away goal as this would make life easier for them. The Zebras won the first game 1-0 at the National Stadium early this month. Based on the past performances, Zambia will not be an easy team on their home ground but it is expected that the one-goal advantage will be a motivation for the Zebras. On the issue of Notwane midfielder, Dirang Moloi's continued selection to the national squad while he is reportedly not playing for his club, Rowe stated that Moloi has the ability that is needed in the Zebras XI. 'I asked him several times to play for his club. He tells me a different story while his club (Notwane) also tells me a different story,' he said. The rest of the 18-man team is: Noah Maposa, Mompati Thuma, Joel Mogorosi, Nelson Gabolwelwe, Ernest Amos, Ndiyapo Letsholathebe, Boitumelo Mafoko, Keoagetse Radipotsane, Vincent Phiri, Moatlhaping, Pontsho Moloi, Raphael Nthwane, Mabogo, Bolelang, Tshepo Motlhabankwe, Moreetsi Mosimayana, Khumo Motlhabani.