Rollers to rise from the dead?

TSHEPO MOLWANE
Staff Writer | Friday July 25, 2008 00:00

 

Though they lost 4-2 on penalties in the final to Mochudi Centre Chiefs, Rollers' all-round performance was more than satisfying.

After months of suffering, it seems Popa are reviving. Though one would dismiss last Saturday's performance as a one-day wonder, Mapalastina seem to be ready to face any challenge and to bring back the smiles to their supporters who have become a laughing stock of late. Since the 2005 league and cup double, Rollers have failed to stamp their authority in local football. This has earned the management, led by managing director Somerset Gobuiwang, heavy criticism. But with the weekend performance, there is no doubt that the critics will be anxiously waiting to see how the team fares in the Coca-Cola Cup.

The Rollers' rearguard, which was in tatters last season looked stable at the weekend when Mapalastina blooded three defenders, Timothy Phiri (Boteti Young Fighters), Jomo Mgadla (Miscellaneous) and Owen Molato (Extension Gunners). The three players fitted well in defence and executed their duties efficiently, especially in the final against Chiefs.

They were complemented by youngster, Edwin Olerile, at the left-back position, in the absence of experienced Boniface Makolo.

In the middle of the pack, Lesego Molemogi was given a rare appearance after being on the sidelines for long. He did not disappoint as he gave his side options when going forward.

Rollers' coach, Dickson Ngwenya, told Mmegi Sport this week that his side is ready for any challenge. Though he would like to add at least four experienced campaigners to the current squad, the Zambian tactician has assured supporters that with time, they will start packing the stadium in numbers to watch their side torment opponents. 'As you are aware, I have been worried about our defence. We have gone around and recruited some players to try and stabilise things and so far so good. The boys did their work at the weekend and I hope they continue doing the job for us,' said a confident Ngwenya. The soft-spoken coach believes that there is need to bring in another goalkeeper though they have recently signed 'retired' Anthony Matengu, who showed some glimpses of his old brilliance during the weekend games. Rollers communications' officer, Molatlhegi Mangole, said that if the current squad contained and competed with Chiefs for 90 minutes, then there are signs that they are headed in the right direction. He added that all that is left is to work on the right combinations before the Coca-Cola Cup last 32 clash with Mochudi Buffaloes during the weekend of August 9-10. 'We need to add fresh legs upfront to work with Mandaza (Terrence). There is also need to bring in a quality creative midfielder, but I have the confidence that we will get him. I urge our supporters to be patient because the team shows some signs of improvement,' said Mangole.

A long-time Rollers supporter, Mookodi Seisa told Mmegi Sport that after watching the side at the weekend, he is convinced that they are heading in the right direction. 'There was an improved performance, but my only gripe is that the coach did not give some new players enough time especially in the second game. At least this time, a round, they (technical team) have recruited players in areas, which were of concern. That defender from Miscellaneous (Mgadla) will go places and as for Mandaza, we have a new Chikoti (Joseph- a former Rollers striker who is now late),' he said. An excited Seisa believes that Chiefs were lucky to escape with victory.