Crunch ties in rugby semi finals
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday August 21, 2015 14:36
The rivalry among the four top teams; Gaborone Hogs, University of Botswana Rhinos, BDF Cheetahs and Livingstone Kolobeng Jaguars will continue as they battle for a spot in the final.
The first match, to be played at the UB Stadium, pits Rhinos against Jaguars. Rhinos come into the match limping after losing their match against Hogs last weekend. However, they still feel they will retain the advantage after beating Jaguars home and away in the first round of the league. The Kolobeng students have a point to prove against Rhinos as most of the players once turned out for the UB team. Rhinos manager, Thatayaone Malele told Mmegi Sport yesterday that pride is always at stake when the two sides clash. He said as the defending champions, their intention is to book a place in the final. Malele said after losing to Hogs, they spent most of the time working on their mistakes.
“We intend to dominate them with our forwards. We also want to win all line up’s and scrums. If we play that way, Jaguars will not stop us. We also have a strong bench, something that our opponents do not have,” said Malele. He admitted that some of the Rhinos players are carrying knocks, but it is not possible to rest them. He added that they are forced to play because it is a crucial encouter. Another interesting battle will be fought tomorrow at Wharic Park between Hogs and Cheetahs. With the skill that Hogs possess and the toughness of the soldiers the two sides bring the best out of each other. Hogs are currently at the top of the log while Cheetahs are in the third spot.
Cheetahs spokesperson, Modesto Mazambi said it is never easy to play Hogs because the side has lot of skilful players. In their last encounter, Hogs beat Cheetahs 13-10. “Hogs have an intelligent fly half and a fast backline. We have been working hard on our defence. We lost to Hogs because of our mistakes.
The mood is positive and all players are looking forward to a good rugby game,” he said. Mazambi said Cheetahs must avoid making mistakes because Hogs are deadly on penalties.
Cheetahs would depend on players, who just returned from national team duty namely Eddie Ernest, Lempaletse Ngaka, Kagiso Molefhi, Omphile Debula, Manenga Keeditswe, Chiche Chiche.