Moorosi Tsiane
Resurgent Bantu will be hoping to pile pressure on LMPS when the two sides meet in a Vodacom Premier League match to be played at Setsoto Stadium this afternoon.
Bantu have been enjoying a great run under the new leadership of Bafokeng Mohapi, who replaced the sacked Motlatsi Shale last month.
The Mafeteng-based outfit has won all the three matches Mohapi has been in charge, destroying Likila United and Mphatlalatsane 4-0 and 4-1 respectively, and beating Likila 3-0 in the first leg of the LNIG Top8 quarterfinal last week.
On the other hand, LMPS come into the match bottom of the 14-team premier league table, and have only won one match this season—ironically against Bantu, who occupy 6th place.
Mohapi on Friday told the Sunday Express that the aim was to continue accumulating points and become title-contenders alongside pacesetters Lioli, second-placed Matlama and third-placed LCS.
“We started the second round of the season well and would like to keep that winning record. Remember they beat us in the first leg so they will be coming motivated,” Mohapi said.
The former Likhopo coach further said the fact that LMPS are in the relegation zone with 12 matches of the campaign to go, makes them even more dangerous because they are desperate for a win.
“They are bottom of the log and we all know every team would not want to be down there, so they will be coming to us in search of a win, and we need to be ready for them.
“The team is shaping up well because we create chances and convert them. So the boys are ready for Sunday’s challenge and we promise LMPS a tough fight,” said Mohapi.
Mohapi also said he was happy with the return from injury, of deadly striker Tsebang Lebata. Lebata had been out of action for two season, while Mohapi also said midfielder Katleho Moleko, who suffered an injury in December, was back in training.
“Tsebang is fully fit now and that means competition for places, which is good for the team.”
However, LMPS public relations officer, Kotsoane Ramakau, says the team would not settle for anything less than maximum points today.
“Bantu are the only team we have managed to beat this season and that says a lot about our performance. But we will be going out there for a win and nothing else,” he said.
Ramakau said the team was aware of the danger Bantu can pose on their day.
“Because we beat them in the first leg they will be looking for revenge and that makes them very dangerous.”
Ramakau also said their January big-signing, Nkau Lerotholi, had started training with the team and was available for selection.
“He has started training with the team and I have seen a lot of positivity now in our side. I think Nkau’s arrival has made a big difference in our team and raised morale in our camp,” said Ramakau.
In other league matches to be played today, Kick4Life round-up Setsoto’s double-header, when they host LCS, Sundawana welcome Lioli in Butha-Buthe, while Likhopo face Linare at LCS Ground.