Santos focused on rebuilding for now
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Friday February 6, 2026 09:24
The once-feared side is sitting dangerously in position eight with 16 points, just two points away from the relegation zone. The Gabane-based side narrowly went down to Security Systems last weekend in their first match of the year 2026.
Head coach Thabo 'Booster' Mothibi, despite being disappointed with the result, also saw light at the end of the tunnel, particularly in the way they generally applied themselves in the match.
He said this season they are not thinking about promotion to the elite league since they are in a rebuilding phase.
'The mandate this season is to retain our status in the league. We want to build a team that will be able to compete for honours three seasons from now.
'That is why we are bringing in young players so that we prepare them for the upcoming seasons. For this season, what is important is to keep our status in the league and finish in a respectable position, 'Mothibi explained.
He noted that the rebuilding exercise was necessitated by the mass exodus of players at the end of last season when they were relegated from the Premier League.
He revealed that about 18 players left, and they had to build from scratch. Equally, coach revealed that they have also tried to add a few experienced players so that they can guide these youngsters.
Amongst some of the experienced players are former Nico United captain, Onkabetse Seforo, as well as former goal poacher, Moatlhodi Ralesotla.
This weekend Santos take a long trip to face Tsetseng United at Matsha College. On paper, Santos go into the match as favourites with Tsetseng currently languishing at the bottom of the league table with only five points.
At the time when Santos suffered a 2-1 defeat to Systems last weekend, Tsetseng United were receiving four lashes at the hands of log leaders, Prisons XI.
In other First Division South matches scheduled for tomorrow, Prisons XI will be away to Majweng FC, with both teams desperate for maximum points.
While the Warders look to maintain or possibly extend their gap at the top, Majweng also cannot afford to lose, as they also sit dangerously in the relegation zone.
The hosts are ninth on the log with 15 points. Prisons XI, on the other hand, top the table with 32 points, three above second-placed Dinare, who take on Thamaga Shooting Stars.
Security Systems host Jwaneng Young Stars in one of the most unpredictable matches of the weekend, whilst Tlokweng United welcome Notwane in Tlokweng.
In the only game played this evening at Gaborone United Stadium, Taung Young Strikers lock horns with Holy Ghost. The game kicks off at 7pm, whilst the rest of the weekend encounters start at 4pm.