Experts normally say the league is won in the first round. A team has to collect as many points as possible so as to safeguard them in the second round, while others fight for survival.
The first round is almost over with Township Rollers leading the pack and several people are touting them for the much converted P1 million cash prize.
But as things stand, Rollers still have to put in extra work because their lead is unsatisfactory.
Losing two matches will see them tumble to second spot as Mochudi Centre Chiefs and Extension Gunners are breathing heavily on their necks.
On the other hand, the conduct of the Premier League teams in the current transfer window might eventually determine the league winners.
If Rollers keep the same squad and make a few reinforcements they might be untouchable in the second round.
Some of the players played their socks off and might be a bit drained when the going finally gets tough.
Previously, especially in the mid-nineties, Rollers had the tendency of leading the league for a very long time only to falter where it mattered the most.
Strong challengers, Centre Chiefs, on the other hand are riddled by transfer speculations and if several of their players involved finally make a move, Chiefs will be deeply affected and would find their aspiration of winning their second title in three years going up in smoke.
It is a matter of how they deal with the situation.
Players like Dirang Moloi, Sekhana Koko, Michael Mohaladi and Tshepo Motlhabankwe are subject to transfer rumours and it remains to be seen if the team can hold on to them.
Some clubs have reportedly written to the team seeking permission to speak to some of their key players.
Gunners, however, have to reinforce a bit if they are to give other teams a run for their money. Their weakest link has proven to be their defence, which is a bit porous at times and tends to concede silly goals.
Other teams with an outside chance are the likes of Uniao Flamengo Santos and BDF XI.
Santos’ CAF participation might, however, strain them a bit should they progress further in the competition. Playing in Africa has proved to be a tough task and the team that does well in African club competitions normally performs above average in the domestic competitions.
On the other hand, Rollers have made it clear that they will not be making any signings in the current transfer window. The reason being that they are doing well and they believe they have enough depth.
Chiefs, however, publicly said they would like to promote most of their youngsters to the senior team but it is doubtful if it will work for them if indeed they are serious about championship contention.
