Chiefs, Gunners renew rivalry

BOITUMELO KHUTSAFALO
Staff Writer | Friday September 10, 2010 00:00

 

Although the league only started a few weeks ago, the results of this game could have a major impact on the league standings.

There is no doubt that Gunners will play this game under immense pressure after losing two consecutive matches.The worrying factor about Gunners is that they seem to struggle upfront. They are the only side in the Premier League, which has not scored a single goal since the campaign started while they have conceded three goals.

Gunners’ current problems stem from an exodus of key players and the new combinations the team is trying to implement.

Tiroyamodimo Mohambi was roped in as a replacement for Bernard Semakwezi who has joined Nico United.Although the nippy striker showed glimpses of what he can do against Rollers two weeks ago, he still has not returned to the form that led to his move from Gunners to Gaborone United (GU) two seasons back. Some Gunners’ supporters could have started pressing panic buttons although it is in tough games like this one in which teams normally rise to the occasion. Victory for Gunners tomorrow could just be what they need to get their campaign back on track.

The odds, however, favour Chiefs as Gunners last beat the log leaders more than three seasons ago.

The midfield, which has Aubrey Sithole and Kemmy Pilato, among others, has not been firing but it is upfront where they need to be sharper. It will not be easy breaking a defence led by Itayi Gwandu and Tshepo Motlhabankwe.

Chiefs on the other hand cannot afford to lose this game as it might mean surrendering top spot. ECCO City Greens, GU and Rollers are breathing down on their necks with only goal difference separating the four teams.

Chiefs have started this season on a high note, hammering Uniao Flamengo Santos 4-0 before embarrassing new comers, Black Peril 8-1. Chiefs have made it clear that they want titles this season after being runners-up in the last two seasons.

Santos have a chance to redeem their dented pride when they host Miscellaneous at Molepolole Sports Complex tomorrow. Santos, just like Gunners, have not really found their footing while Miscellaneous have managed to collect two points in two games.

The only disadvantage for the Serowe boys is that they will be playing on artificial turf for the first time ever. In Francistown, struggling TAFIC will host BMC while Police and GU clash at Otse Police College.

On Sunday, Motlakase and ECCO City lock horns in Selebi-Phikwe. ECCO have emerged as one of the favourites for the title after an impressive start and a victory could see them at the top of the log should other title contenders tumble this weekend.

Still on Sunday, Black Peril face another tough side when they take on BDF XI at Otse Police College. All the games kick off at 3pm except for the TASC-Notwane game, which starts at 7pm.

The game was initially scheduled to take place in Masunga, but it was moved to Selebi-Phikwe Stadium tonight.