Lijabatho demote Malapane
LIJABATHO have reassigned Kabelo Malapane to the position of first assistant coach, despite his impressive start to the season, following the appointment of British coach Mark Harrison as head coach.
Malapane took over as head coach at the beginning of the season after the departure of James Madidilane, under whom he had served as an assistant coach.
He led Lijabatho in their maiden CAF Champions League campaign, where they lost 2-0 in the first leg before drawing 1-1 in the return leg against Madagascar’s CFFA.
Domestically, Malapane guided the reigning league champions through seven matches, recording five wins and two draws. Lijabatho currently sit second on the league table with 17 points, just one behind leaders Matlama, who have 18 points.
Despite the strong start, the club’s management has opted for a coaching change, with Malapane retaining his place in the technical team as first assistant coach.
Lijabatho communications and marketing manager, Tankiso Moletsane, confirmed the changes to the Lesotho Times this week, saying Tiisetso Molete would serve as the second assistant coach.
“Coach Malapane will remain in the team as first assistant coach,” Moletsane said.
Meanwhile, Harrison has signed a one-year contract with the club.
The British coach, who has been in Lesotho for approximately two weeks, officially took charge of the team this week and is expected to make his technical-area debut on Sunday when Lijabatho host league newcomers, Villa, at Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena.
Harrison brings extensive coaching experience across the African continent, having worked in South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Malawi.
His coaching résumé includes stints with South African clubs Black Leopards, Mpumalanga Black Aces, Chippa United and Golden Arrows. He has also coached Zimbabwean giants, CAPS United, and Botswana’s Township Rollers.
