'Thrilla in Manilla' ends in anti-climax

Mqondisi Dube | Tuesday May 20, 2025 13:27

The 2024-2025 season will go down in history as one of the most memorable title fights, producing the local version of 'Thrilla in Manilla'. However, there was an anti-climax as neutrals had hoped the thrill will go on until the final day.

But with one round to play, the champions have already been decided, while at the bottom, Security Systems are one foot in the First Division to join already demored Uniao Flamengo Santos and Chadibe.

Systems will need a miracle to stay afloat as they have an inferior goal difference compared to their relegation rivals, BDF XI. With the top and bottom almost confirmed, there will be little to play for on the final day of the season.

It was going to be exciting to see how GU handled the pressure of meeting their blood rivals, Township Rollers on the last day of the season. Fans are now left with 'if only' after Rollers dropped points in recent games, which somehow diluted the excitement.

Neutrals would have wanted a close race right up to the finish, but GU emerged as deserved winners, and erased any ambiguity about their title credentials with a 4-2 shellacking of Jwaneng Galaxy, one of their nearest rivals for the throne.

It was a statement win from the red side of Gaborone, and they are worth winners of the new FNB Premiership trophy that goes with a cash cheque of P1.4 million.

It has been a near flawless season, a welcome break from the usual shenanigans that have become synonymous with the local game.

Botswana Football League chief executive, Bennett Mamelodi, and his team deserve a pat on the back after overseeing the smooth running of the league, bar a few hiccups.

Play on the pitch was really impressive and so were the crowds. However, there is one irritant that has perennially stuck out like a sore thumb; the running of clubs.

There has been a lot happening of the pitch, which has affected giants, Township Rollers and Extension Gunners.

The model used to run local clubs, mostly where an investor retains 80% of the stake while the society takes the remaining 20% might not be the best if recent events are used as a barometer.

Investors need total control of clubs in order to fully implement their visions without the hindrance of the society.

However, what has also come out clear is that running a football club is expensive and not all investors will manage to finance a local team from their pockets.

There is a need for serious conversations on the models of running local clubs.