No easy walk in Premier League - Matengu

TSHEPO MOLWANE
Staff Writer | Friday April 3, 2009 00:00

 

Matengu said the fact that they beat Fighters 1-0 during the first round tie, goes to show that all the clubs have strengthened their squads. 'We cannot afford to undermine any side because all the teams want points,' he said. However, he was quick to point out that Rollers want to redeem its dented pride.

Rollers were beaten 2-0 by defending champions Mochudi Centre Chiefs last weekend in a top of the table clash. The defeat cast doubts over Rollers' ability to compete with log leaders Gaborone United (GU) and Chiefs for the title. There have also been questions over the technical and tactical acumen of coach Rahman Gumbo. A loss against Fighters might spell doom for the Zimbabwean tactician who came with a big reputation.

'We have to win to redeem our pride and the mood is okay in the camp. We want to win as many games as possible in the second round as anything can happen. GU and Chiefs can falter and if we win, we will be in with a chance,' he said.

Being an ex-Fighters' goalkeeper, Matengu pointed out that he is not going to put himself under pressure to prove any point to his former employers. 'It is just a normal game for me,' he said. Matengu played for the Mogoditshane side for close to five years. He was the most outstanding Rollers' player in the 2-0 defeat by Chiefs.

At the other end of the pitch, Fighters' goalkeeper Barolong 'Toldo' Lemmenyane will be looking forward to prove a point to his former employers. Since leaving Mapalastina at the start of the season, Lemmeyane seems to be enjoying a new lease of life though Fighters have been pretty inconsistent this season and the sooner they start picking points the better. In Patrick Dikalanyane, Mandla Mgadla and Kabo Siane, the Brazilians have players who can turn the game around. In defence, Mogami Makwatse and teammates will have to be on the alert against the marauding Rollers' forwards. Kickoff is at 3.30pm.