Heavy legs as clubs prepare for next season
Kabelo Boranabi | Monday July 24, 2023 16:00
League authorities have announced their intention to kick off the 2023-2024 season in September and teams are faced with a minimum of five weeks to look sharp at the first whistle blow.
There is, however, mixed activity as teams drag their legs to training grounds while activity in the transfer market is heating up. But record league champions, Township Rollers have been quick to return to the field with some heavy line-up of friendly matches.
The Blues will tomorrow enter their third week of preparation and called its troops a bit earlier after a third consecutive season without silverware. Popa will this Saturday take on South African giants, Kaizer Chiefs in Gaborone before a friendly contest against African Stars from Namibia next Saturday in Maun. The Blues have also been the busiest club in the market with nine arrivals this transfer window.
Across town, Gaborone United (GU) began their preparations in South Africa against Mamelodi Sundowns and SuperSport United. The Reds have, however, been quiet in the market despite losing some of its key talents including Goitseone Phoko, Obonwe Maome and Mothusi Cooper. GU are faced with CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round matches to be played mid August.
The reigning champions, Jwaneng Galaxy are also in the mix. They beefed up their squad with the arrival of Phoko and full back Chicco Molefe from Police Xi while Wendell Rudath has committed to the club by a year and a half. Galaxy are sending warning signs early and will also have to cut their preseason early as the team returns to CAF Champions League adventure.
Former Masitaoka’ head coach has begun his duties at Sua Flamingoes as the team started off their preseason with some gym work in the past week. With just five weeks to September, a number of teams are yet to begin their preparations for the next season. The uncertainty over the league start, which has been a norm over the past few seasons, could be the cause and teams may be rushed over their preparations if the league season begins in September.