Baptism of fire for rookies Yaros
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday June 29, 2018 14:38
And it might get worse against an unbeaten Mafolofolo side, which, despite losing key players in the off-season, still remain formidable. Mafolofolo have not lost in five outings this season and lead the log with 15 points, while Police VI have lost only once in four matches.
Yaros coach, Mmoloki Gaobone said it is difficult to prepare for the two sides.
“You will realise that Mafolofolo are the defending champions and Police VI boasts experienced players. At the same time motivation is based on admitting that we have nothing to lose, but to gain experience,” he said. Gaobone said his players are motivated as they look up to Mafolofolo and Police VI stars like Gontle Goirwang and Chada Majaha. He said his players have spent the whole week training at Molapo Crossing for the weekend assignments. Gaobone said they are a young side, seeking to mature and play together.
He raised concern that fixtures have not been friendly to both Yaros men and women’s teams.
“We never have a break in between matches. We get 30 minutes’ break then back to the court for another match. We do not have time to recover and that is unfair to my players. We have raised concern with the Games Commission but they have not responded,” Gaobone said.
Meanwhile, the Yaros men’s side has been having a good run in the league. The team has played five matches, won two against Spiking Stars and Prisons. Yaros dropped points against Diphatsa, Police VI and MagStimela. The new-kids-on-the-block are in position six with nine points. Gaobone said he was happy with their play. He said the losses they suffered were due to lack of experience and depth. The men’s games against Desert Kings and Mafolofolo have been postponed. “We are looking for partners to help us with training equipment, transport and accommodation for our young players. Most of them just completed senior school and are unemployed. It is difficult for us as management to carry the team from our pockets,” Gaobone said. Mafolofolo coach, Kabo Ntshinogang said he did not expect his side to be winning so early in the season. He said what is happening now is a short-term plan.
“My target is 2020 when I have groomed my young charges. We are winning now because we made some changes. We are more defensive than attack. In the past, we were more dangerous on the attack,” Ntshinogang said. He said the weekend match against Yaros could not be taken for granted. He said they are going all out to collect maximum points. Meanwhile, Botswana Volleyball Federation public relations officer, Kagiso Meswele responding to Yaros’ concerns said at the beginning of the season, clubs were given an opportunity to discuss draft fixtures, either to adopt or propose amendments. “Yaros did not raise any concerns during that period. Right now there is nothing that can be done in terms of amending fixtures,” Meswele said. He said they are aware that the club travels from far, but there is nothing that could be done.