MASERU — Matlama added another chapter to their decorated history on Sunday by winning the 2011 Vodacom Soccer spectacular after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Bantu at Setsoto Stadium.
Tse Putsoa became the first team ever to win the tournament twice in what was their third final in a row.
With their win Matlama are now M360 000 richer, although much of that will go to fines after their fans showed their rowdy side on several occasions during Sunday’s final, even with their team’s win.
Like they did three weeks ago in the initial final, Matlama fans threw missiles onto the field after their side scored a second half equaliser through Pali Tšalong and then invaded the pitch after Mpho Matsinyane missed a spot kick gave them the win.
That will undoubtedly detract from the team’s display. But it shouldn’t.
In the end Matlama were deserved winners of the tournament, displaying calm, measured and attractive soccer on their way to victory in the final.
The hero on the day was Tšalong after his well-taken goal, but many of the players can be pointed out, from the defence unit of Nkau Lerotholi, Thapelo Mokhele, Sello Seholoholo and Tšoanelo to the wonderful performances of Dlomo Monapathi upfront.
The win was sweet redemption for Matlama after their loss to Likhopo in last year’s final and their second after a win over LCS in 2009.
