Leemisa Thuseho
LCS produced a magnificent display thumping FC Likhopo 0-6 in a Vodacom Premier League (VPL) match at LCS Ground yesterday afternoon.
LCS went into the game highly motivated following their 0-2 win over Manonyane on Wednesday while Likhopo had drawn one-all with CCX.
LCS‘s intentions were clear from the first minute as they took complete control of the first-half scoring four goals in the process.
Makara Ntaitsane converted the opener from the spot after Likhopo’s Leluma Posholi handled the ball six minutes into the game.
While Likhopo were searching for an equaliser they barely threatened their opponents and instead LCS doubled their lead on 31 minutes through Keketse Snyders assisted by Diutlwileng Molefe.
Synders could have made it three for LCS but his headed effort missed the target after connecting well with a Motsamai Sehloho corner.
On 33 minutes LCS scored their third, Ntaitsane’s second on the day.
While the LCS dominance continued, Likhopo also had a chance on the 35th minute but Mokhejane Moetsuoa missed a rebound after LCS goalkeeper Tankiso Chaba failed to handle Mothae Moqolisi’s attempt from a free kick.
Two minutes before half time, defender Kopano Tseka added to Likhopo’s woes making it four after heading home a well-struck ball into the box by Tumelo Ngatane from the right.
In the second half Likhopo refreshed their strike-force by introducing Thabiso Mari for Mahooana Mashale. They appeared a better side enjoying possession but failed to create enough scoring opportunities.
Ten minutes into the second half, Likhopo sacrificed Mafa Mokhoele for Mashale. LCS responded by introducing Khethisa Masenyetse for Refiloe Mothae.
On the 57th minute Thetso Posholi slotted in the fifth before Synders hit the last nail Likhopo’s coffin on 80 minutes.
LCS’ last substitution saw Molefe and Ntaitsane making way for Thabang Malane and Hlomelang Lebina respectively.
Mari could have scored the consolation gaol for Likhopo in the dying minutes but he hit the frame of the goal post.
LCS assistant coach Molefi Hlojeng said sticking to their plan won the day.
“There is nothing much we did today, we just studied our opponents in their recent games,” Hlojeng said.
“We realised they have a team of young, energetic players, therefore; we needed to make use one of our strengths like speed and ball control.
“Our plan was to attack in full force and it worked.”
After a high intensity first half, they allowed the opponents some possession in the second half.
On his part, Likhopo coach Halemakale Mahlaha said the loss was a huge blow to his young boys. They will however, go back to the drawing board and he believes they will return a better team in the next game.
“It is sad but we need to go back and talk to the players and prepare them mentally ahead of the upcoming games.
“We were unsettled by the early goals we conceded and we also have lots of boardroom issues that are affecting my players,” he said.
The Matlama versus Kick4Life and the Swallows versus Lijabatho games were yesterday postponed due to Covid-19 related challenges.