Limping BDF XI face thriving Galaxy
Kabelo Boranabi | Friday January 27, 2017 15:11
Matebele are missing a number of key players due to injuries and suspensions.
Speedy winger, Kobamelo Kebaikanye and central midfielder, Richard Legwaila are ruled out due to injuries, while holding midfielder Bitwell Phiri, Keagile Kobe and full back Othusitse ‘Nakata’ Mpharitlhe are doubtful, unless if they pass a late fitness test.
The team would miss Kelapile Ndlovu through suspension after the defender was shown a red card in the league fixture against Mochudi Centre Chiefs last Friday.
Coach, Louis ‘Sarafina’ Setshwane will bank on attacker, Khumbulani Madziba to lead his troops to victory.
The attacker provides options for the depleted squad as he can play on both flanks, as a second striker or as the main striker. Madziba has four goals this campaign. Former Zebras midfielder, Bonolo Phuduhudu, who has been used sparingly this season might be brought to provide the stability against a quick Galaxy side.
On the other hand, Galaxy would hope their cup fairytale continues as they seek to put one foot in the final in their maiden cup appearance. Galaxy are unbeaten in the last 10 games and pose a threat as they have abundance of talent in the strike force.
Skillful winger, Thabang Sesinyi has scored eight goals in 14 games this season. His partnership with Morris Rusivo and Thero Setsile has been impressive.
Coach, Mike Sithole is also spoilt for choice at the back, with Gofaone Molapi, Tebogo Sosome, Moreetsi Mosimanyana and Boitumelo Mafoko putting notable performances whenever called upon.
The Jwaneng-based side has scored 12 goals in the last five games while conceding only two.
Under the tutelage of Mike Sithole, the team is yet to lose a Mascom Top 8 cup fixture. Words from the technical bench:
Louis Setshwane (BDF XI)
“Missing these players is not the end of the world, we have to accept and fight with what we have, I care about the health of the players.
We must wait for them to heal.”
“I would say we are one of the teams that create most scoring opportunities than any other team, boy our downfall is putting the ball at the back of the net, we are losing because if you create so many scoring chances and you don’t bury them you are bound to be caught off guard.”
Michael Mogaladi (Jwaneng Galaxy)
We cannot dwell much on BDF’s injury problems. We come in to the game as underdogs since this is our first Mascom Top 8 semi-final, whilst BDF have the cup experience.” I believe that we have to guard against complacency; of course there is excitement in the camp after knocking out a big club like Chiefs.
It is now up to us to guide these youngsters on the day to get the best out of them. It doesn’t matter whether we play away or at home, both teams have an advantage.”