Support the Zebras, Vultures
Editor | Friday June 13, 2008 00:00
The two games are in Gaborone. On the other side of the city, the 1000km Toyota Desert Race, popularly known as Mantshwabisi, will also be taking place. With this menu, sports fanatics are spoilt for choice.
This is how the nation expects you to spend your weekend - and away from mischief. First thing in the morning, go and see the rally drivers as they embark on the gruelling 1,000km race at Game City and then get ready for the Zebras as they play the Elephants at 3pm. At 5.30, the Vultures will be on a mission to finish off the Ugandans just like they recently did with the Swazis.
We therefore urge all Batswana and other sports fans to go and watch these events this weekend. The Zebras have a mammoth task against the Elephants. Indications are that it is going to be a titanic battle that will take the might and the agility of the Zebras to triumph over the robust West Africans. The Zebras have always relied on the support of their fans and tomorrow is no exception. The fans are the 12th player - and their presence worked wonders in Maputo where the Zebras silenced Mozambique 2-1 last weekend. This is the time when the team needs the nation's support more than ever before. The slump in Zebras' performance kept the fans away, but there is no excuse this time around. The boys won away in Maputo. So it is time to go back to the stadium and support the Zebras so that they beat one of the powers of African football. However, we caution the Zebras' fans to behave well whether Botswana wins or loses. The days of destroying property when the team has been defeated are long gone. We must learn to accept defeat in grace. Akere, we are a peace-loving nation!
The rugby national team also needs the nation's support, as they fight to qualify for the 2011 World Cup. We urge Batswana to go and lend their moral support to the squad at the UB Stadium after the Zebras' game. We believe that if a third of the crowd at the National Stadium were to take a detour into the UB Stadium, it would provide the right atmosphere for the Vultures to devour their prey.
The desert race has become so popular with Batswana and visitors alike. We urge all those who will be going for the event to exercise caution. Please do not drink and drive. The nation wants you back alive.
Today's Thought
Give encouragement (the incentive to action) you will have courage and be encouraged.
- W. Clement Stone