By Leemisa Thuseho
DEFENDING Vodacom Premier League champions Lijabatho ended Matlama’s unbeaten start to the season with a 3-1 victory at Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena. Jane Thabantšo opened the scoring in the second minute, Teboho Masuoane doubled the lead in the 32nd minute, and Sphamandla Klassen added a third before half-time. Litšepe Marabe converted a 63rd-minute penalty for Matlama.
Matlama’s five-match winning streak ended, leaving them second with 15 points behind Bantu on 16. Lijabatho moved into third place on 14 points. Matlama coach Thabile Secker criticised costly defensive errors but said the second-half display improved. First-choice goalkeeper Leluma Mofoka missed the game after reportedly sustaining minor stab wounds in an attack in Qoaling; Utloanang Leoma deputised.
Lijabatho assistant coach Tiisetso Molete credited the side’s preparations and analysis of Matlama’s recent matches, while expressing disappointment at conceding a goal. Matlama next host Linare, while Lijabatho prepare to meet Bantu at the LCS Ground.
Featured image: Lesotho Times file photograph of Matlama’s Phafa Ts’osane from an earlier fixture.