Rollers enter unknown territory
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Friday February 10, 2017 11:16
Rollers left this morning at 6am by air to Johannesburg. They will then catch another flight around 10am to the Madagascar capital, Antananarivo. Based in Miarinarivo, Madagascar, CNaPS have won a total of five league titles.
Their first was in 2010 before they lost it in 2011 and 2012.
From 2013 up to now, they have been dominant in the league. They have two Champions League appearances, which took place in 2011 and 2014. In both instances, they have been knocked out in the preliminary round.
Rollers should be in high spirits despite facing an unknown side. The 2-0 victory over city rivals, Gaborone United last weekend should serve as motivation ahead of the match. An away goal could prove vital with Rollers hosting CNaPS next weekend. With experienced players among them Joel Mogorosi, Terrence Mandaza and Mogogi Gabonamong who have both played in competitive league in South Africa, Rollers are expected to know what is at stake away from home.
Here at home, they have been blowing hot and cold this season despite topping the log standings.
They have failed to maintain the consistency that saw them win last season’s league title. However, their talisman, Segolame Boy seems to be returning back to form and carries the hopes of many supporters who will not be able to travel with the team.
The game is expected to be played under hot conditions with the country without significant rainfall in a long time.
However, Rollers’ assistant coach, Thabo Motang said they are aware of that and will be ready for such conditions. “We will try and be cautious early in the game and see how things unfold before we can execute another plan if the need be,” he said.