Rollers query Coke Cup venue
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Lobatse Stadium will accommodate a double header between BMC and Mochudi Centre Chiefs; and Rollers against ECCO City Greens. Speaking to Mmegi Sport yesterday, Rollers assistant Public Relations Officer, Pule 'Malombo' Ramaabya said that the decision is not good both for the clubs and supporters. He said that Lobatse Stadium is too small to host national champions (ECCO) and two of the most supported clubs in the country. He stated that the size of the stadium compromises the safety of the players and referees because of the huge crowds expected to attend the matches. He added that the situation is not helped by the fact that Rollers and Chiefs' fans usually fight during matches between the two clubs and hosting them in a small stadium is courting disaster. He stated that this does not mean Rollers entertain violence during football matches. Ramaabya expressed concern over the gate takings. He said that most clubs in the country do not have enough sponsorship and depend on gate takings to make ends meet, hence taking the match to a small stadium outside the capital city is not wise. "We rely solely on gate takings. Why were these games not played on Friday or even Sunday afternoon since the Police Day celebrations will be on Saturday?"
Ramaabya said they know the decision has already been taken and therefore will respect it. "We will go there and honour the game," he said. He encouraged Rollers' supporters and other fans to come in large numbers to watch their game against ECCO. "Rollers is more than ready to beat the league champions. I would like to promise supporters that Rollers' technical team have assembled a very good team and it is time we showed why we are a quality team," he said. He urged the supporters to behave well at the games. He asserted that Rollers' fans are known for their good behaviour.
These roads, which are vital conduits for trade and tourism, have long been in dire need of repair. However, while this development is undoubtedly a positive step, it also raises questions about broader issues of infrastructural management and road safety that deserve closer scrutiny.The A3 and A33 roads are not just any roads, they are critical arteries that connect Botswana to its neighbours and facilitate the movement of goods and people...