…LU coach Makhetha takes swipe at referees
…Lijabatho run riot against Maroala
Leemisa Thuseho
LIOLI FC have returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Limkokwing University (LU) in a Vodacom Premier League (VPL) midweek clash at Ratjomose Ground yesterday.
Sihle Maso put the defending champions ahead in the 43rd minute following a largely below-par first half from both sides.
Lioli created several opportunities midway through the second half but struggled to extend their lead, a lapse that allowed LU to claw their way back into the contest. Substitute Khutlang Mokhesi levelled matters in the 86th minute, raising hopes of a late draw for the students.
However, LU’s joy was short-lived as Litšepe Marabe came off the bench to score the decisive goal for Lioli deep into referee’s added time.
The win comes after Lioli were held to a 2–2 draw by rivals Bantu last Saturday in Maputsoe.
Speaking after the match, Lioli coach, Bahlakoana Mohoanyane, expressed concern over his side’s continued wastefulness in front of goal, which he believes cost them maximum points against Bantu.
“Despite the win, the worrying issue is missing chances. The same thing happened in our previous match and it happened again today,” Mohoanyane said.
The victory lifted Lioli two places up the log standings, from fourth to second, on 28 points. Mohoanyane said being among the leading pack was in line with the club’s objectives.
Mohoanyane took over the reins last month following the resignation of Bongani Maseko and has since recorded three wins and one draw.
“I am happy with the progress. Since my arrival we have played four games, won three and drawn one, and that shows there is improvement,” he said.
As Lioli seek to successfully defend their league title, Mohoanyane said the club is looking to reinforce the squad during the ongoing January transfer window.
LU coach Motebang Makhetha, meanwhile, voiced frustration over what he described as poor officiating, which he believes has repeatedly gone against his side.
Makhetha said his team has often been on the receiving end of questionable refereeing decisions and urged the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) to take action, alleging that some referees influence match outcomes in favour of big teams.
He also complained that referee, Retšelisitsoe Molise, unnecessarily prolonged the match despite stoppage time having lapsed, arguing that LU would not have conceded the late winner had the match ended on time.
“We lost, but the environment was not conducive due to poor refereeing,” Makhetha said.
“I can point out that the added time was already up when we conceded the last goal. Some of the late set-pieces awarded to Lioli, one of which resulted in a goal, were not fouls according to me.
“Big teams like Lioli do not need to be pushed to win games because in most cases they end up representing the country at international level. It is high time LeFA stepped up.”
Despite the defeat, Makhetha praised his players’ tactical discipline and said he remains optimistic ahead of their next match against Members FC on Sunday in Morija.
In another midweek fixture, Lijabatho were in ruthless form as they demolished Maroala 6–1 in Morija. The emphatic victory saw Lijabatho move to the top of the log standings with 29 points.
Weekend fixtures
All premier league teams return to action this weekend to conclude the first round of the 2025/26 season.
The weekend programme will be highlighted by a triple header at Bambatha, where Matlama host Liphakoe, Bantu face Linare, and Lijabatho take on Majantja.
On Sunday, Lioli will welcome Lifofane in Maputsoe, while LMPS host LMPS at PTC Ground. Machokha will face LCS, LDF take on Manonyane at Ratjomose, and LU travel to Morija to meet Members FC.
