Chikomo tips Orapa United to win Mascom Top 8
Prolific Orapa United striker Ronald Chikomo thinks his team can scoop the coveted Mascom Top 8 trophy in their first campaign of the popular tournament affectionately known as ‘Tse Di Tona’.
Chikomo is an authority when it comes to winning the Top 8. He has won the Top 8 twice before with his beloved Gaborone United (GU). Chikomo was speaking during an interview over the weekend after his team Orapa United played to a one-all draw with BDF XI in a Top 8 semis final staged at the Itekeng stadium in Orapa.
“By all means it is not easy to reach the Top 8 semi-finals. This is a rare chance that comes once in a while,” said the striker, who helped Gaborone United win the Top 8 cup during the 2012/13 and the 2014/15 seasons. Chikomo said they will be ready for BDF during the second leg of the games scheduled for the Francistown sports complex next month.
“I think we started the game in a slow pace because it was very hot we are used to playing most of our games at night,” Chikomo said after drawing with Matebele. The robust and free scoring GU legend said he was happy with his move to the Ostriches of Orapa thus far.
“I am happier at Orapa as I am enjoying more game time. It has been three months since I arrived and the team has given me everything I need,” said Chikomo who scored Orapa United’s only goal on Sunday.
Meanwhile, BDF will have their hands full with not just Chikomo but the Ostriches’ newest signing, Onkabetse Makganthai. The former Nico United star is currently in scintillating form having changed the complexion of the game when he came in as a substitute for Chikomo in the second half.
“This is only my fourth game with Orapa. I have been great playing for the team so far. Remember that we are on a winning streak having gone 20 games without a loss.”
Makgantai said the fans in Orapa have received him with open arms adding that the team will deliver the cup after they proceed to the Top 8 final. “The coach said I should deliver in every game and he was happy with the result against BDF.” For his part Ostriches' headcoach Madinda Ndlovu said he was confident that his team will win in the second leg of the semi finals.
“We played to a one all draw and this is a game that has its pros and cons, my team is more than capable of scoring. I need two goals to win and proceed to the final.” “This is the Mascom Top 8 and it is all about who wants it the most. How my boys to the goal against them and how they responded showed character.
They came back from behind and fought hard for the draw.” A content Ndlovu also took time to sing praises for Makgantai, his latest acquisition adding that he was a good player who will be important in helping to win games in the future.
