ECCO, Chiefs rivalry shifts to Coke Cup

BOITUMELO KHUTSAFALO
Staff Writer | Friday June 22, 2012 00:00

Unlike in the Top 8 where there is a second chance, tomorrow's clash should produce a winner who will proceed to the semi-finals. Clashes between the two teams have never failed to thrill.

After missing numerous chances last Saturday, it will be interesting to see how Ecco will fare away from their own backyard. Chiefs are expected to welcome back Zimbabwean defender, Arnold Chaka who missed their last match due to national team commitments.

In his absence, Michael Mogaladi partnered Thabiso Khunwane at the heart of the defence. Upfront, where Chiefs usually look dangerous, Joel Mogorosi and Kekaetswe Moloi were never really in the match. Moloi found the going tough against Ecco's defensive duo, Keabetswe Jenamiso and Emmanuel Nlu. Mogorosi on the other hand struggled to beat Zebras left back, Ontse Ntesa.

In another match that promises to be a classic, Township Rollers  plays BMC tomorrow at Lobatse Stadium. Rollers rested most of their key players in their midweek league fixture against Extension Gunners. Mike Sithole made seven changes to the team that started against Gaborone United (GU) in the Mascom Top 8 semi-finals first leg. Mogakolodi Ngele is a likely threat after he scored two cracking goals last Sunday against GU. He was one of Rollers' key players who missed the Wednesday match against Gunners. With Edwin Moalosi back in the United States (US), Tebogo Sembowa or Thapelo Balepi are expected to fill the void on the wing. Moalosi played his last game for Rollers this season last Sunday against GU. BMC have remained a difficult customer for most teams this season after the acquisition of several top players.

Although the likes of Hendrick Moyo are yet to live up to their high profile moves, he could become a constant threat to Rollers' defence with his runs.

On Sunday, Molapo Green Birds will hope that their giant killing spree continues when they meet GU in Molepolole. Green Birds have already dumped two Premier League giants, Notwane and Nico United, out of the competition. They remain the only lower division side in the competition. Against GU, they face a side that is also unpredictable. Following the defeat to Rollers, striker Ronald Chikomo and winger, Mandla Mgadla returned to the bench on Wednesday against Police XI. GU won 3-2 with Tshepo Molefe scoring two goals and another bench warmer, Bakang Moeng notching another.

At the SSKB Stadium, Uniao Flamengo Santos will lock horns with BDF XI in a repeat of the 2009 final where Santos emerged winners. Santos are currently fighting for survival in the Premier League, but will be hoping that their poor league form does not continue in the cup competition. BDF XI on the other hand see the Coca-Cola Cup as the only chance to put something in their trophy cabinet. All the games kick off at 3pm.