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Geophrey Sifani, Sports Reporter
TSHOLOTSHO FC head coach Lizwe Sweswe and his technical team selected 30 out of more than 60 players that turned out for the club’s trials at White City Stadium yesterday.
Sweswe said they were impressed with the turnout and trials would continue until next week when they settle for their final squad for the proper preseason preparations.
“We’re impressed with the turnout of enthusiastic players, but like in all trials, there is a certain something that we’re looking for, hence the move to trim the numbers,” said Sweswe.
“We know it’s going to be tough because many new faces will turn up, but we’re looking at the level of game play they display.
“The two South African-based guys are going to start next week with us when we’re through with trials,” The two players are strikers Fanuel Patika and Brian Mumba, who ply their trade in the South African lower leagues.
Although the selected players at yesterday’s trials were for all departments, Sweswe said their main focus was on the strike force.
Sweswe said they had deliberately turned a blind eye on players’ physic since it was soon after the holidays.
He said the technical team could easily work on an overweight but technically gifted player.
“As a coach, the first assessment I normally use is technical and mental strength.
“How a player reacts when put under pressure, how they react to situations.
“We turned a blind eye on physical appearance because we’re just from the holidays when many gain weight,” Sweswe said.
Club chairman Mlamuli Phiri said, “We’re impressed with the turnout although some players thought because we’re a rural team it will be easy to qualify.”
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