Leemisa Thuseho

DESPITE a string of poor results since taking the reins in 2019, Likuena coach Thabo Senong believes it is not yet time to give up unless the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) decides otherwise.

Since joining Likuena, Senong has played 13 matches with no win. He has lost seven and drawn six.

His side has just returned from the tri-nation tournament in Mozambique along with eSwatini where it suffered a humiliating 5-0 defeat at the hands of the hosts before losing 1-0 to eSwatini.

Apart from the embarrassment on the field, Senong’s side also registered despicable cases of indiscipline and criminality while on tour. Matlama player Thabo Matšoele was allegedly caught on camera stealing money from team manager Lehlohonolo Matlosa’s room. The M1400 was later returned.

Apart from the incident, other players allegedly reported for training reeking of marijuana.

But Senong this weekend took responsibility for the team’s dismal showing.

“I take the blame for the team’s performance and the outcome; if anyone should be blamed, then it is the head coach,” Senong said.

“It is also the responsibility of the coach to select the right players after considering their behaviour and technical abilities as well as what we have been practicing.

“People have different opinions but ultimately my employers have the right to say whether or not I must be sacked.”

Despite all the challenges, Senong is determined to soldier on and improve his players.

Likuena is preparing for the COSAFA Cup to be held in Durban, next month and Senong has already said he intends to make changes to his team given the Mozambique incidents.

LeFA president Salemane Phafane had already expressed worries over local teams’ performance. Last month Phafane said he would crack the whip if team continue underperforming while also giving Senong a target that he must reach the semi-finals of the COSAFA Cup.