Mapalastina Rise To The Occasion

Tshepo Molwane
Staff Writer | Monday June 22, 2009 00:00

 

This was the Gaborone giants' first win in two months. Edwin Olerile opened the score from the spot in the first half before Edwin Moalosi and Terrence Mandaza struck in the second half. Rollers who have been on a decline in recent times, produced one of their best performances so far this season. The disappointing crowd that attended the match did not dampen the spirits of the Rollers' players who kept the spectators on the edge of their seats. Popa came into the game after their 2-2 draw against BMC in Lobatse on May 30. The few supporters who were in attendance appreciated the result as the last time Rollers won a league game was on April 18 when they beat Great North Tigers (GNT). Since then they have been experiencing heart-breaks, with the loss to Mogoditshane Fighters in the Coca-Cola Cup, the most painful.

Against Boteti, Rollers were without the services of midfielders Boitumelo Mafoko and Monageng Thaele who have gone to pursue professional careers in South Africa. But the absence of the duo was not felt as those who were available produced a memorable performance. Playing in his second game, Tebogo Mothusi was a marvel to watch in Rollers' midfield with his accurate passes. The former TASC midfielder added the spark which has been missing in the Rollers' team and whenever he was in possession, supporters sang his praises. Though he has been out of action for long, Mothusi showed signs of his old form at TASC and created big problems for Boteti whenever he pushed forward.

Another player who tormented TASC was young Edwin Moalosi. He was a menace to the visitors with his sublime skills and it did not come as a surprise when he netted the second goal after  benefiting from Mothusi's free-kick.

Rollers' assistant coach, Thabo Motang said that he was happy with the performance especially in the first half. 'You could see there was cohesion in the team, something which was impressive considering that we have not played in the last two weekends,' said Motang. He praised Mothusi for an outstanding performance. He added that they have been lacking playmaker and the midfielder has come at the right time. Rollers remain in fifth spot with 42 points from 25 games. They travel to Selebi-Phikwe this Saturday for a date against Nico United.