Upbeat GU look to finish off Gunners
Chakalisa Dube | Friday December 8, 2017 17:06
The clash will be staged at the Francistown Sports Complex, a venue that has often produced a great atmosphere for a soccer match.
United go into the second round match carrying a healthy lead having won the first leg 3-0. If the history of the competition is anything to go by, Gunners will certainly be eliminated from the country’s most prestigious cup competition. Gunners have never gone beyond the quarterfinals of the competition since its inception five years ago. Added to that, recent records show that United have fared better against the Peleng boys. Early this season, United defeated Gunners by a solitary goal in the league. Both sides have not enjoyed consistent form this season although they occupy respectable league positions. Gunners are seventh with 16 points, a point behind second-placed GU, who trail leaders Township Rollers by 10 points.
Going into tomorrow’s match, GU coach Rudolf Zapata will fancy his chances looking at the playing personnel at his disposal. He boasts a host of seasoned and gifted players in his team. One notable example is veteran midfielder DirangMoloi. Of recent, Moloi has shown that his talent is not waning as hinted by some pundits. Known for his big match temperament, Moloi might be the highlight in tomorrow’s clash. Against Township Rollers last Saturday, the nomadic Moloi rolled back the years with a scintillating display. The likes of forward TumisangOrebonye and ObonyeMaome may also inflict pain on the Peleng boys if left unchecked. It was Maome’s brace that inspired GU to a 3-0 lead in the first leg.
Mid fielder, Mothusi Cooper and long serving OfentseMmipi come to mind when one thinks of Gunners players who can cause havoc against the ‘Money Machine’. Mmipi has a knack for scoring vital goals, but the Peleng boys have often struggled when he is off form as it was the case in the first leg.
The supremely talented Mmipi has so far contributed five goals in the league and is amongst early contenders for the Green Boot award. He has, however failed to translate his league form to the Mascom Top 8 something that should worry the Peleng boys. With his excellent passing ability, Cooper might be key tomorrow, should he find his range.
However, despite his rich talent he has often exhibited lack of experience especially on the big stage, which is why he cannot be relied upon at times.
Even his mentor, Tumie Duiker recently admitted that the youngster is still work in progress and needs to be afforded time to establish himself.
Gunners defender, Desire Bafana is a doubt going into tomorrow’s clash and should he not be cleared to play, it will be a big blow to Duiker’s side.