MASERU — LCS coach Mafa Ramakau says he is bracing for a tough battle against rivals LDF in the final countdown in the race to be crowned Lesotho’s soccer champions.
Masheshena on Sunday climbed to the summit of the Vodacom Premier League log ahead of the army side on goal difference with an impressive 2-0 win over LMPS at the Central Prison.
LDF, meanwhile, failed to take to the pitch over the weekend after their much-anticipated clash with fourth-placed Linare in Hlotse was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.
That match will now be played next Wednesday following a premier league meeting on Tuesday night.
It now means both LCS and LDF face three matches in the final week of the league season.
Masheshena entertain Joy at the Central Prison on Saturday then face Matlama on Wednesday before a season-defining clash with LDF on the final day of the season next Sunday.
LDF on the other hand host Maduma at Ratjomose this Sunday before a tough trip to Hlotse.
“I haven’t had any thoughts that we won’t win our next games. Our aim is to win the next two matches before we face LDF. LDF are looking at tough matches,” Ramakau told the Lesotho Times on Tuesday.
Ramakau who is tasked with ending LCS’s trophy drought showered praises on in-form striker Thabane Rankara.
Rankara scored both Masheshena’s goals in their win over LMPS and is now the league’s top scorer with 12 goals.
“Rankara is someone who has worked hard but he has been helped by his teammates . . . Ralekoti (Mokhahlane), Shoes (Lieta Lehloka). All the players have all played well to get us where we are,” Ramakau said.
“One thing that has changed is that the players are together now,” he added.
“The time when we were drawing matches was when the players were away because of work commitments.”
The LCS mentor said the game against Matlama would be tough but they were optimistic that they would keep up with their top form.
LCS will move three points clear of LDF if they beat Joy.
“I’m confident they will come with a fast pace so we have to remain calm,” Ramakau said.
He added that he was already preparing for the end of season finale against LDF.
“I’m already preparing for that match, they are a bit rough.
“After beating LMPS I’m confident we can win the league. They (LDF) always give us problems but I’m hopeful.”
