Botswana Football Association (BFA) referees’ chairman, Alucious Sesikwe, believes that if the Zebras can improve on their performances, it will serve as good omen for his men as they will start being considered for the bigger assignments in the continent. He said this on Friday afternoon after eight of his referees left for Swaziland and South Africa to take charge in the African club championships’ ties.
“It is always good to have our referees being assigned to such games as it helps in improving their officiating. Whenever they leave, we encourage them to handle the games well because it will earn them good marks to get next assignments. We’re happy with their level of fitness and we’re looking forward to positive feedback,” said Sesikwe.
In a bid to put his men in good shape, the eight officials were given a chance to officiate in the Mascom Top 8 games last weekend and League games in midweek. Most people in the country have been wondering that if Botswana referees are that good, why is it that CAF never considers them for bigger games in the latter stages of the Champions League and Confederations Cup.
“The reason why our referees are never considered is mainly due to the performance of our national team. But we always encourage them (referees) to do their utmost best when they’re out there officiating in the continent. I have no doubt that very soon we’ll see the benefits of their performance,” added Sesikwe.
At the time of going to press yesterday, referee Kutlwano Leso, Elijah Masitha, Moemedi Monakwana and Tirelo Mositwane were taking charge of a CAF Confederations Cup match between South Africa’s Supersport United and CS Don Bosco from Democratic Republic of Congo.
Supersport United, who have Mogogi Gabonamong in their books, took a 1-0 lead from the first leg which was played in Lumbubashi a fortnight ago.
In Mbabane, Swaziland, yesterday afternoon, Lekgotla Johannes was the centre referee when Mbabane Swallows hosted Zanaco from Zambia. He was assisted by Meshack Medupe and Oamogetswe Godisamang with Omphile Phuthego being the fourth official. They are all expected back home today.
