Clinical Ostriches crush hopes of a dream final

Staff Writer | Tuesday February 6, 2018 12:58

 

Most fans were unequivocal in their choice for a final pitting the veterans of the Gaborone derby, Township Rollers and GU, when the semi-final draw was conducted at the bus rank last month.

Rollers played their part and dismissed Jwaneng Galaxy, although it was via the away goals rule, as the two-legged tie ended 3-3 on aggregate.

The gauntlet had fallen on GU's lap, and they dismally failed to respond as a rampant Orapa United plundered in four goals with the Red side of Gaborone only managing a solitary strike over two legs, leaving the aggregate score at 5-1.

Hopes of a dream final were up in smoke, as GU continue their search for silverware since their last win in the Top 8 Cup three years ago.

Most had already installed GU as favourites to lift a third Top 8 trophy, as the team has at times, played fluid football, which is coach, Rodolfo Zapata's trademark.

But the Reds came unstuck against an uncompromising Orapa United, which, on current form, will start as the slight favourites for the February 24 clash against Rollers.

Rollers have failed to take full charge of recent encounters, both in the league and the cup, which might leave a drooling Orapa ready to pounce.

Orapa has intimidating names in their ranks, with off-season signing, Tapiwa Nyamanjiva stealing all the plaudits.

The anchorman has shone like a pebble on a beach, in the process, unleashing the attacking prowess of the likes of Tendai Nyumasi and Omaatla Kebatho.

But Rollers are battle hardened and have a quality squad capable of inflicting revenge on United, who beat Popa 3-1 in the 2016 final.

Both sides will be looking for their second Top 8 title, to draw level with GU, which up to now, has been the most successful side in the competition's seven-year history.

The winners receive a handsome P1.3 million cash prize and the right to represent Botswana at the CAF Confederations Cup.