Can the Reds bounce back?
Larona Makhaiza | Friday December 22, 2023 13:01
Gaborone United (GU), the football giant currently grappling with a recent downturn in form, will clash with Security Systems at the Lobatse Sports Complex. Pontsho Moloi’s charges are determined to reverse their fortunes after relinquishing five vital points in the last two games.
This downturn allowed Township Rollers, the league leaders, to extend their advantage to six points at the top. GU suffered a defeat against Rollers and, over the weekend played to a lacklustre 0-0 draw against Masitaoka. This marks the first instance in the ongoing campaign in which GU has dropped points in consecutive games. Nevertheless, they maintain their second position with 20 points from a possible 30, having played 10 games. Meanwhile, Security Systems, despite a sluggish start to the league following a change in the technical team, have silently ascended. Over the weekend, the team, affectionately known as the Alarm Boys, surprised Orapa United with a 2-1 victory.
This triumph elevated Systems to fifth position, having collected 19 points to date. The two sides have encountered each other in previous campaigns, with GU often emerging with bragging rights. Molaodi ‘Danger’ Tlhalefang, a key player, will face his former side, Systems, for the first time since joining GU in the last transfer window. ‘Danger’ has enjoyed an auspicious start to his GU career, securing a spot in the starting 11 and the national team. Systems, in turn, must remain vigilant against Thatayaone Kgamanyane, who is in electrifying form.
The left-footed striker recently extended his contract with GU for an additional two and a half years and has scored eight goals so far. Township Rollers, after their recent away encounter, return home to Royal Aria to take on Morupule Wanderers.
The league leaders aim to secure maximum points to conclude the year on a high note. Eleven Angels seek redemption after a recent defeat as they host Police XI at the Francistown Council Stadium. VTM FC face off against TAFIC, aspiring to extend their unbeaten run at the VTM Arena. Nico United, at the bottom of the standings, confront another struggling side, Orapa United, at the Itekeng Stadium. Sua Flamingoes, led by Mandla Mpofu, clash with Holy Ghost at the Sowa Town Council Stadium. The last fixture features Matebele and Masitaoka at the Dinaledi Football Academy Stadium, while BDF XI enjoy a rest day due to Jwaneng Galaxy's CAF Champions League campaign.