Mikia Kalati
Giants are targeting Mabote Beavers’ scalp in Saturday’s Federation of Lesotho Rugby (FLR) League semi-final scheduled for Lesotho Correctional Service Ground in Maseru.
Giants, previously known as Maseru Kings, were Lesotho’s first rugby team to play in one of South Africa’s amateur leagues when the team was established in 2012. The team won the FLR tournament last year, when the competition was then being played on a Sevens format.
However, Giants spokesperson, Napo Mapuru, said they were not taking Beavers lightly as doing so could be catastrophic.
“We are going to take Beavers very seriously to make sure we reach the final. It must also be noted that next month, our team will be competing in the Eastern Free State so this tournament gives us the opportunity to fine-tune ahead of the South African tournament,” Mapuru said.
Mapuru added he was happy Giants now have competition from local teams, and were relishing the weekend clash against the Beavers.
“There is a big rivalry between local teams, especially ourselves and Mabote Beavers,” said Mapuru.
“The other motivation going into this match is that there will be individual awards at the end of the season and everyone wants to be a winner.”
According to Mapuru, there would be most valuable player, best defensive player, most improved player, team flair play, top points-scorer, top try-scorer and best sportsman awards, at the end of the season.
“So, all in all, we would want to be in the final that will be played at Kick4Life next weekend so that we go to the Free State competition motivated,” he said.
Giants are not the only Lesotho team that will compete in the Free State as Maseru Select would also be part of the league.
Meanwhile, in another FLR semi-final match set for Saturday, Maseru Warriors take on NUL Spears also at LCS Grounds.
The Lesotho Times could not immediately get comments from the other teams in the upcoming tournament.
