Zebras� Barren Run Rumbles On
Staff Writer | Monday September 4, 2017 16:06
Simon Msuva struck either side of half time to condemn the Zebras to yet another defeat. Zebras’ win last came in a friendly match against Angola on Independence Day in 2016. In official matches, the winless streak stretches to last year March.
Peter Butler was replaced by David Bright as the Botswana Football Association (BFA) sought a change in fortunes, which however, has not materialised.
Bright has suffered three defeats since taking over in June. On Saturday, the Zebras started with Mwampule Masule in goal, protected by a back four of Simisane Mathumo, the returning Edwin Olerile, Orapa United defender, Thabang Mosige and Moshe Gaolaolwe.
Bright congested the midfield, which had Maano Ditshupo, Gift Moyo, Kabelo Seakanyeng, Segolame Boy and Alphonse Modisaotsile. Jerome Ramatlhakwana was the lone man upfront, tasked with finding the goals.
It was a line-up reminiscent of the Stanley Tshosane era, where Ramatlhakwana was the lone striker, supported by a congested midfield. The tactic worked then, but it remains to be seen if Bright, assuming he persists with the formation, will find the elusive luck.
On Saturday, the Zebras conceded inside the opening six minutes, with Msuva striking brilliantly from an acute angle after the visitor’s defence was caved open.
The second was a brilliant team goal as, after a foul in the centre by Gaolaolwe, the hosts, exchanged several passes before releasing Msuva on the right, and the striker rifled past Masule in the 62nd minute.
It would concern Bright how his charges were, time and again, penetrated, as they did not press or close the gaps early enough.
Botswana is still in the running for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations finals, but face a mountain to climb after a 1-0 reversal at home to Mauritania in the opening match. Their next match is away to Angola next March.
Zebras line up against Tanzania
Mwampule Masule, Edwin Olerile (Lesenya Ramoraka), Mosha Gaolaolwe, Simasane Mathumo, Thabang Mosige, Maano Ditshupo (Katlego Masole), Gift Moyo, Kabelo Seakanyeng, Segolame Boy (Tumisang Orebonye), Alphonse Modisaotsile, Jerome Ramatlhakwana
Subs: Anthony Gouws, Ramoraka, Jackson Lesole, Masole, Tapiwa Gadibolae, Hendrick Moyo, Orebonye