University of Limpopo softball side are currently leading the Limpopo Softball Association Super League log standings with an impressive run rate.
A glimpse at the Limpopo Softball Association (LSA) Super League log standings confirms that the University of Limpopo are the pace setters.
You rub your eyes in disbelief; assuming that the log table is mirage; but it is laid bare in the truest form of mathematical superiority.
It seems miraculous for a recently promoted team to just catapult to the zenith of the log standings; but the students have done the unthinkable by surpassing even perennial achievers; Moletlane Texas; who are now pretenders to the throne at second place; followed by Lebowakgomo Wild Beasts and Seshego Raiders; respectively in the top-four bracket.
UL burst on the provincial elite tier full of pomp and zeal; with no tinge of cowardice and respect for the game’s top campaigers.
Nicknamed “Amagundwane”; UL remain the underdogs and a surprise package.
They have no well-known stars in their lineup but a bunch of ball hitters with relative ease; making them the most enigmatic team in the senior league.
UL are perched comfortably at the table with 13 points from eight games.
They have so far won six games; lost once; and a draw.
Their easy batting has amassed a tally of 67 runs and conceded 24.
UL have no predictable approach; but somehow; they instill fear into the opposition.
Head coach; Boitumelo “Mellow”
Diketane says the team is pleased to wear the underdogs tag; a factor that eases their pressure off their shoulders.
Diketane remains philosophical when she notes; maintaining that spirit of verbal parsimony.
“Being newcomers is somehow a blessing in disguise. Opposition teams hardly know our individual characters; and our game plan remains a closed book. We approach every game with open-mindedness;” she said.
Diketane says their mission is to remain at the helm by sharpening the attack and strengthening defense.
“Our goal is to limit runs against and maintain our position as the team with fewest runs conceded. We are preparing hard for the second leg fixture with focus and intent. It is just awkward that we are in the first semester of the examination period, and preparations will not be as effective as we wish. However, with the determination of the team; we believe we will pull through. “Our aim is to retain our top sport and win both legs against the best teams while still respecting these opponents. We will continue to approach every game with hunger to dominate and not drop more points against any team;” Diketane said.
She remains concomital about her sharpest arrows in her quiver; saying every player has his own role they have to execute with unlimited power and resilience.
“In the current team, we do not have key players necessarily, because our team format of playing varies with the teams that we play against and my wish is to ensure that I have a team that I can always rely on in each and every game. We are blessed to have national players in our squad and their international experience is always a morale booster for us…” she said.
Against this backdrop; UL won’t be eligible to participate in the Softball South Africa’s National Club Championships even if they win the provincial league title.
Meanwhile; the once glamorous Mahwelereng Spikes are still rooted at the basement below fellow strugglers; Motlolo Roots.
The two relegation-threatened side continue to fail to honour the away games.