News

Despite hovering in the relegation zone, University of Botswana (UB) Hawks Football Club still have a strong chance of surviving the First Division South League drop with seven games left to improve their log standings.

Currently, Hawks sit second from the bottom with 13 points from 15 matches, having won three games and drawn four. Desert Nxau, based in Tsabong, trail them at the bottom with 11 points. While the situation appears precarious, Hawks still have an opportunity to turn things around if they can capitalise on their remaining fixtures.

The team’s upcoming matches include encounters with Prisons XI, City Polar, Tlokweng United, Tlaung FC, Police XI, Magosi FC and Desert Nxau. With each game carrying significant weight, Hawks face mounting pressure to secure victories and climb out of the danger zone.

Hawks have struggled this season due to several challenges, including the loss of key players to Premier League teams, injuries and the integration of new players. However, their recent performance against Jwaneng Youngsters showed promising signs of improvement.

In that match, Hawks displayed confidence and cohesion particularly in defence, midfield and attack. They executed accurate long and short passes while maintaining solid ball possession. Compared to previous games, they showed tactical growth by playing wider, exploiting spaces and transitioning quickly from defense to attack.

Despite their improved play, Hawks failed to convert several scoring opportunities particularly towards the end of the first half. Youngsters, on the other hand, capitalised on set pieces, breaking the deadlock in the 40th minute through a well-taken free kick. They sealed their victory in the 79th minute when a Hawks defender, in an attempt to clear a corner kick, inadvertently scored an own goal.

Key players such as Katlego Keobake and Kago Sesinyi combined effectively on the left wing, creating several chances. Attacking midfielder Kabo Matshula was also instrumental, though he squandered several opportunities. Olerato Letshwenyo controlled the midfield and contributed to the attacking build-up but was unable to find the net. Meanwhile, Brian Tukula and Pius Mogae formed a formidable attacking duo, making multiple attempts at goal, albeit without success.

With seven matches remaining, UB Hawks must build on their recent improvements and convert their chances if they are to avoid relegation. Their fate is still in their hands and with determination and tactical discipline, they can secure their place in the First Division South League for another season.