Notwane maintain undefeated streak
The 2017/18 Debswana first division South league log leader Notwane FC continued their runaway success this past weekend in a 1-1 draw against rivals Mogoditshane fighters. This extended their unbeaten run to six wins and three draws, as they continue to ride the crest of a sensational wave.
Perhaps the best decision made by Notwane management was roping in former Botswana Football Association (BFA) president Tebogo Sebego as strategic president. In a brief interview this week, Sebego said his first assignment was to ensure the management team drafted a plan of action before they could do anything.
“The first thing we had was strategic retreat that was facilitated by Ashford Mamelodi, from that meeting we then had an idea of where we want to go,” Sebego said. According to Sebego, the strategic meeting played a role in lifting the morale of the team. Sechaba are currently left with rivals Black Peril and new comers Broadhurst United to end the first round with no defeats.
In a recent interview, experienced Notwane player Mpoeleng ‘Stopper’ Mpoeleng said the arrival of the new team chairman Sebego has brought a lot of hope to the team. He is in constant consultation with players,” Mpoeleng said. The former Magosi player said the current Notwane squad is vertically integrated with all departments relying on each other on the pitch.
Mpoeleng said their last few games were examples of sound management with the defense serving, as workers while the midfield did the management part and striker were directors. According to Mpoeleng Notwane have a simple plan for this season. “We are not targeting 11 games. Instead we plan for four games and if we win three, the fourth win will just be a bonus.” Mpoeleng said the fifth game they play would be treated as the first game of the season as the four game cycles is repeated once again. The experienced player said if they win nine out of 11 games their chance of success in the league would be elevated. It was only Prison XI and Matebejane and Fighters who managed to draw against the Notwane run away train. According to Notwane headcoach Israel Molao, it is important to start with pre-season and make plan for the whole season as coaches differ with philosophies. “I came towards the end of last season. I was with the boys for about seven games. I could see there is potential, they needed to be blended of youth and experience,” Molao said. Meanwhile the arrival of Sebego saw supporters rally behind the team as a united front for the first time in many years. Notwane brought in experienced players like Stopper Mpoeleng, Michael Pepukane and the Ghanaian international Ishmael Amponsah to beef up the squad. The team captain Kereng ‘sdoba’ Mpetang who has been at the club for over a decade continues to play with dedication and distinction.
Toronto failed to make a straight return to the top league after failing to unseat Santos for the second spot last season. Notwane coach is optimist that the once mighty Toronto will finish the first round and second round at the top of the log. Molao urged Sechaba supporters not to despair but to support the club in good and bad times.
