Township Rollers this weekend returns to the field of play after the international break, as the Blues face three crucial matches in the space of a week commencing this Saturday.
Popa face Premier League newcomers Union Flamengo Santos this Saturday at the VTM Arena, and Chadibe FC the following Saturday at the Francistown Council Stadium.
Sandwiched in between those two games is Rollers' first home game of the season, a mouthwatering battle of titans between Popa and defending champions Jwaneng Galaxy next Tuesday night at the National Stadium.
Speaking to Rollers Media after training on Wednesday, head coach Mogomotsi "Teenage" Mpote said the coaching staff used the time since the October 4 Gaborone Derby to work on aspects of their game.
"The derby was a tough game, Gaborone United is a big team and their rivalry with Township Rollers is a huge one, and it was the first official competitive game for both sides. Both had to raise the bar," Mpote said.
"We had a plan to neutralise two of their key players, Thatayaone Kgamanyane and Mpho Kgaswane, and it worked for most of the game. But we had a problem with ball retention and transition, something we have been working on since that game. Although we had periods where we took control, overall GU had the upper hand, so we learned a lot and we have been working on correcting," Mpote added.
Mpote says he has used the two weeks between the GU game and upcoming Santos match to work on his side's preparedness.
"We have had good training sessions, informed by the GU game, we worked on transition play, combination play, facilitating opportunities and scoring them, and for all the build up play, we know what we do in the final third is important. We play Santos next, a team good with the low block and mid block, so we want to be prepared for that," Mpote said.
While there are three games coming in quick succession Mpote says his side will plan one game at a time.
"The Galaxy game is huge, they have been dominant in our local league in recent seasons and they have gained CAF Champions League experience. But my own players are experienced; many of them at national team level and find it easier to adapt. But for us, we'll take it one game at a time, so we'll first focus on the Santos game and every point from every match is important to us," Mpote said.
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