But hardly a year later, it has all turned sour, leaving a trail of broken promises, with Sebata terminating the partnership last month. This week, it emerged Rollers faces piling debts with fingers pointing at Sebata for failing to honour promises to shell players' dues. "We agreed with Sebata that they take care of all expenses as obligated until the end of the season and its almost month end but players have not been paid for April. Sebata has not been taking care of their obligations. The club has been contributing and asking for donations here and there so that at least players have water for training sessions, meals, and refreshments on match days. Debts are piling with outstanding signing-on fees, transfer fees, lease at the Royal Aria and from the printing of tickets," a source close to developments said. "Actually, players have been getting paid late since around November. Imagine if the club had agreed to the 100% demand of taking over the club? What will happen if they leave the club with debts and we fail Club Licensing. Rollers owe clubs in Lesotho for transfer fees and if they go to FIFA the club will be in trouble," added the source. The split between Rollers and Sebata was acrimonious with the company accusing the club of dishonesty in disclosing ownership details and also raised concern over certain regulatory non-compliance. Rollers has not commented on the accusations levelled against the club. Despite Sebata's departure, the company committed to meeting all financial obligations until the end of the season.
However, this week's reports emerged that players were still waiting for their April salaries and boycotted training on Wednesday as the team prepared for tomorrow's derby against Gaborone United. Sebata Holdings media liaison, Nqobile Ndlovu acknowledged cashflow challenges and said they are working towards resolving the issues. "We remain engaged in supporting operational responsibilities and are addressing current cashflow challenges. There have been delays (in the payment of salaries) due to cashflow, but we are working toward resolution," Ndlovu told MmegiSport this week. Asked when the company will settle debts accrued during their time at Rollers, Ndlovu said director, Tendani Sebata is working on the matter. "Sebata is finalising internal processes and will engage on this directly once complete," Ndlovu said.
