Police VI out to atone for league disappointment
Calistus Kolantsho | Thursday November 26, 2015 16:00
The ‘Cops’ have a score to settle against Kutlwano after suffering the heartbreak of losing out in the league race on Sunday.
Despite setting the pace for almost the entire season, Police VI fumbled when it mattered most and finished in second spot with 62 points. It was a cruel end as Police VI won 20 out of 22 matches.
Kutlwano finished first with 64 points and pocketed P100, 000. Kutlwano have registered one loss this season, winning 20 matches in the process. Police VI coach, Tshepho Iketeng felt they lost the league due to lack of experience. He said the players cracked at a crucial time, similar to what happened last season. He said his players gave up quickly and lost focus.
“These are youngsters and with a lot of exposure they will be alright,” he said. “I just have to be patient with them. They should always keep their heads up.”
Iketeng said they are all fired up ahead of the Top 8 tournament. He said it would be nice to end the season with a trophy. He said the tournament would assist them as they prepare for the Zone VI championships slated for Swaziland in December.
“We are going to play many games this weekend and that will assist my boys to improve their stamina,” he said.
Kutlwano coach, Dopp Popo told Mmegi Sport the secret for their success was a cautious approach. He said he had warned his players not to be over-confident and not to win games before they play them.
Popo said the strategy has worked for them hence being able to win the league championship for the second time in a row. Regarding the prize money, Popo said the team spends a lot of money on transport. He said only if the prize was more they could be benefit. He said Kutlwano wanted to claim the Top 8 title.
Meanwhile, the Botswana Volleyball Federation (BVF) vice president-technical, George Keotsenye said eight men’s teams will compete in the weekend tournament while there will be four women’s sides. The finals for both men and women are on Sunday.