Tough test of character for Rollers
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Friday February 17, 2017 10:55
Rollers who played three holding midfielders in Madagascar in the first leg are expected to shift to a more attacking formation tomorrow.
In Antananarivo, Rollers gave young midfielder, Gape Mohutsiwa a rare start alongside two other holding midfielders, Lawrence Majawa and captain, Maano Ditshupo.
They made it clear that they will play a more cautious approach in Madagascar since their opponents were a closed book before the first leg. Under Teenage Mpote, Rollers in the local competitions have been consistent in their line up. Now trailing, they are expected to field their usual attacking formation, which mostly comprises two holding midfielders and quick wingers. Mohutsiwa is expected to return to the sidelines while Majawa and Ditshupo once again partner in the middle of the park. Rollers need at least a goal and avoid conceding in order to progress to the next stage. On their day, they are likely to do that with ease.
However, they have been blowing hot and cold this season, which should be a worrying factor going into the match. Their hope lies on their lethal frontline of Terrence Mandaza, Lemponye Tshireletso and Segolame Boy. Boy in particular seems to be returning to his scoring form. His effort in Madagascar gave Rollers the much-needed away goal going into the return leg.
CNaPS will definitely try and protect what they have while also looking to get that away goal. Bourahim Jaotombe and Rakotoharimalala Njiwa goals in Madagascar gave them the narrow lead in the first round.
The Rollers camp this week was adamant that they will reverse the score line. Both Mpote and captain, Maano Ditshupo told the club website that the intention in the first leg was to contain CNaPS in their own backyard.
Ditshupo described their opponents’ play as quick and mostly play the balls through the wide areas. Rollers are also known for their traditional wing play. They have abundance in that area with Joel Mogorosi, Tshireletso, Motsholetsi Sikele all capable of opening up any defence.
Assistant coach, Thabo Motang was also yesterday positive that they will qualify for the next round.
“In the first leg we did not know what to expect from them. They are a good team, but I believe we will beat them. In the first leg, they had to make two clearances in the first half by the goal line. If we play according to plan, I do not see them giving us any trouble,” he told Mmegi Sport. Rollers will be without Mwampule Masule who picked up an injury on Wednesday but welcomed back Kabelo Dambe who has been on the sidelines through injury. The game kicks off at 4pm.