Kutlwano, Mafolofolo go head-to-head in enduring rivalry
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday July 27, 2018 12:40
The game was initially billed for the University of Botswana but will now be played on Sunday at the Molepolole IHS Courts.
Mafolofolo and Kutlwano are the undisputed dominant powerhouses of local volleyball game, with a wealth of talent, which has gone on to represent the national team with distinction.
The clubs have even exported some players abroad.
Kutlwano go into the match with six wins and a loss picked against MagStimela. As a result, they find themselves down in fifth, but were boosted by consecutive weekend wins against Kalavango (3-0) and Dynamites (3-0).
Mafolofolo on the other hand, top the log, having won all their eight matches.
Mmegi Sport caught up with the two teams’ captains ahead of what should be a crunch tie.
Tebogo Sejewe (Kutlwano):
“I have played against Mafolofolo for almost 12 years. I know that each game has its own emotions, approach and tactics. We are looking forward to the weekend assignment. Mafolofolo is a good side,” Sejewe said.
She said even though experienced players have left Mafolofolo for other clubs, the team still remains a threat. She said Kutlwano is aware that they cannot take any chances against their opponents.
“We are going to take this game seriously because we expect tough opposition. We will give them a run for their money,” she said.
Sejewe said Thapelo Kamberuka picked an injury, but they are fortunate to have an experienced coach in Isaac Samuel, who always knows how to respond in such conditions.
“Our aim is to win the league this season. We want to see ourselves lifting the cup come December. That is what all teams are targeting, so it is not going to be an easy run. A win this weekend would put us in a better position,” she said.
Sejewe said as a captain her role is to motivate her charges. “When we get into the field, I usually tell my players that it is a new game and we must start on a high note. Let us focus and stick to the game plan. We have a young squad and it is my responsibility to guide them,” Sejewe said.
Kelebogile Mahupela (Mafolofolo):
“Playing against Kutlwano is fine for now. We take every game seriously, but the weekend game is different and we do not have much hope. As you are aware, we are building a new team. So anything can happen, either we win or lose but a win would be a bonus,” Mahupela said.
Despite Mahupela being modest, Mafolofolo has so far kept a clean sheet, winning all the eight matches. They even humbled the high-flying MagStimela 3-1.
Some of the players who are expected to raise their hands when coach Kabo Ntshinogang calls out his Mafolofolo army are Taboka Tema, Priscilla Nthaga, Tsholofelo Oganne, Game Rakgabo and Gontle Goirwang.