A city divided!
Kabelo Boranabi | Friday April 19, 2024 10:55
It is the 26th edition of the Gaborone Derby since 2010 and it is the blue of Rollers that has dominated the contest with 10 wins compared to the Reds' six while the tie has ended in a draw on nine occasions. Rollers have eyes set on the league championship as they trail leaders, Jwaneng Galaxy, by five points with nine games to play. The battle extends to the boardroom as the two have faced contrasting fortunes. GU issues appear seamless in the boardroom but the same cannot be said for Rollers with the club reportedly battling financial issues. Media reports suggest that club president and investor, Jimmy Haskins Kereng's involvement at the club is under review while there are reports of late salary payments. The team's head coach, Innocent Morapedi, refuted the reports as he said he does not have the evidence to confirm. He further said the reports would not destabilise the camp ahead of the vital weekend tie.
The Blues are aware that a league double over their cross-town rivals would be a sweet moment to savour. Rollers beat GU 2-1 in the first-round tie in December. Morapedi said in a press conference on Wednesday that his side will aim to move closer to Jwaneng Galaxy and also gift their fans with the bragging rights. 'It is not unusual to see us together, the GU coach and me, for we have been together for a long time. As for the game, it is better if you are invited to come and see it because, in a game of football, you can never predict anything. But as per the preparations, we are ready. That is why I am confidently saying come on Saturday and be a witness,' he said. 'There is also a general misconception that Rollers are playing for bragging rights. No, we are playing for three points and the bragging rights are for the supporters,' Morapedi added.
The well-rounded coach could miss Segolame Boy who is due to pass a late fitness test. The team will be without defender and captain, Simisane Mathumo and goalkeeper, Kabelo Dambe due to suspensions. Rollers are unbeaten in the last five games, with three wins and two draws. The Reds on the other hand are enjoying a slightly better run with four wins and a draw from their last five encounters. GU's Pontsho Moloi said the tie is a must to win and keep his side in the title race. 'I think it is a game as Gaborone United we really are going to try and win and to keep our chances alive in the race. Mathematically, the race is still on and we need to keep up with the pace. We need to keep up with the other guys in front of us, so it means a lot to us. The game dictates (that) you play until the last moment. Whatever results that come on Saturday, we will play until the last game. It is very important that we win on Saturday. It’s very important and like I said, we have had a good run of results with five wins from six games. So we are on a very good roll. So, we are good,' Moloi said.