Highlanders seek nod to play at Railways Ground
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday May 30, 2014 10:27
During the 2012-2013 when they were in the Premier League, Highlanders used the Molepolole Sports Complex as their home ground. Highlanders chairperson, Witness Phuthego told Mmegi Sport that playing all their matches away had a negative impact on their efforts to stay in the Premier League. The team was subsequently relegated.
Phuthego said they expect the Premier League to allow them to use their home ground next season. He said if their request is turned down, it would be unfair as the Railways Ground is better than Palapye Swallows Ground, which was used last season. “We expect to get a positive response from the Premier League.
Our management is in the process of improving the condition of our ground. Some of the developments that will be undertaken include erection of stands. We expect the ground to be ready when the league starts,” said Phuthego.
He stated that their preparations for the new season are in full swing. Highlanders were promoted to the top-flight after overcoming Rolling Boys a 2-1 aggregate in the play-offs. Phuthego said they learnt a lesson from their previous short stay in the Premier League. He said their first promotion came as a surprise and they were not ready for top flight action. Highlanders found themselves in the Premier League by default after the expulsion of Police XI and Security Systems. Phuthego said they do not want to find themselves in the First Division again and they would not have an excuse if they relegate. Highlanders plan to keep the nucleus of the current team with coach, Paul Moyo, tasked with beefing up the squad. “It is not fair for players to fight for the team and see it promoted and then they are discarded. They must benefit from their hard work,” he said.
Phuthego said the department which needs strengthening is the attack as goals win matches. He said last season, they won most of their matches coming from behind, which is not good.