Football Mourns �The President�
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Tuesday May 2, 2017 15:14
The devastating news came as Rollers were preparing for their BTC Premiership match against Serowe side, Green Lovers that was scheduled for this past Sunday. The Botswana Premier League (BPL) however cancelled the match after receiving the shocking news on Friday.
Rollers coach, Teenage Mpote described Tiro as a warrior. He said the speedy winger was also respectful and always willing to learn. “Despite not playing regularly, he was always giving his best. He was a player who had the ambition to play for the national team in the future and we were in the process of developing him for that despite the injuries,” Mpote said. Mpote said the Friday scene was very sad and left the rest of the players in a state of shock.
He said the players could not believe it when it was confirmed that their teammate was no more. “It was sad. The players were very emotional and that is why we had to ask for our game against Green Lovers to be cancelled. We realised that the players will not be in the right frame of mind,” he said.
Tiro joined Rollers two seasons ago from First Division side, Uniao Flamengo Santos. He immediately won the hearts of Rollers supporters with his skill and speed. He was usually used as a super substitute by former Rollers coach, Madinda Ndlovu in his first season to change the complexion of the game.
Under Mark Harrison last season, Tiro started breaking into the first 11 and played an influential role during the two legs of the Mascom Top 8 semi finals against rivals, Mochudi Centre Chiefs in Francistown. However, his progress was hampered by injuries this season.
He came on as a second half substitute last weekend in the 2-0 win over Security Systems, replacing goal scorer, Motsholetsi Sikele. He will be laid to rest this Saturday at his home village, Gulubane in the North East. Rollers supporters are currently holding evening prayers at the club’s old offices near the University of Botswana in his honour. His memorial service is planned for Thursday in Gaborone.
Meanwhile, Mpote was involved in an accident on Saturday on his way back from Selebi-Phikwe where he had gone to watch the BTC Premiership match between Nico United and Jwaneng Galaxy. On his way back, he hit a donkey. The Rollers mentor however did not sustain any injuries.