…speaks on sudden surge in the team’s performance
Leemisa Thuseho
NEWLY appointed Matlama coach, Thabile Secker, has wasted no time stamping his authority on the team and, sparking an immediate revival that has turned the once-struggling giants into serious contenders for Lesotho’s premier soccer league title again.
He said renewed confidence and motivation were the secret behind the team’s sudden surge in performance since his arrival.
Secker enjoyed an impressive start to his tenure, guiding Matlama to a commanding 4–1 victory over Manonyane in his first match in charge, before edging rivals Bantu 2–1 over the weekend at Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena.
The win over Bantu was particularly significant, as Matlama had lost 2–1 to the same opponents in their first-round league encounter in December last year.
Ahead of the highly anticipated clash, Secker said his primary focus had been restoring belief within the squad.
“What I did was to motivate the players and instil a sense of self-belief,” Secker said after the victory over Bantu.
Secker replaced Shalane Lehohla, who was recently shown the exit following a poor run of form that included a four-game winless streak prior to the win against Manonyane. Under Secker’s leadership, there is renewed hope that Matlama can get their season back on track.
In the past two matches, Matlama have looked like a “different animal,” showing improved connection, energy and a more effective tactical structure.
Secker said he is introducing a proactive, relentless attacking philosophy to the team.
“We worked mostly on our attack because there is a need to improve in that area. As for defensive drills, we only worked on them a day before the game,” he said.
Matlama are currently seventh on the log with 30 points, eight behind league leaders Lijabatho. However, Secker insisted the team is not putting itself under unnecessary pressure.
“We are not putting ourselves under pressure; we are taking one game at a time,” he said.
Matlama will next travel to face struggling Limkokwing University on Saturday, with the venue yet to be confirmed.
