Moorosi Tsiane
Goalkeeper Sele Thetsane was crowned Kick4Life player-of-the-season at a glittering ceremony held in Maseru on Friday night.
Utility player Thetsane Lesia walked away with the players’ player of the season award, while midfielder Tšeliso Ramafikeng scooped the most improved player accolade, and winger ‘Mako Makoanyane was named young player of the season.
Striker Morapeli Lesoetsa walked away with a Golden Boot award for being the club’s top scorer with seven goals.
Speaking at the ceremony, Kick4Life Director of Football, Chris Bullock hailed the team for a sterling season in which they ended sixth on the 14-team table. In their debut campaign in the topflight league last season, Kick4Life ended the season in 10th position.
“We set our targets at the start of the season and I am very proud that as we stand here tonight, we are celebrating our success because we have exceeded those targets,” Bullock said.
“The aim was to make sure we end the season in the top-eight but we went on to finish sixth, which is a great achievement for us in our second season in the elite league.”
Bullock also spoke of the challenges that faced the team, among them the death of one of their players, Kabelo Mohapi, in December.
“Despite this success I have talked about, we also had challenges but I am glad to say you showed character especially after the death of Kabelo. I am proud of you boys,” he said.
“We are moving rapidly to be the number one team in the country and hopefully next season, we will come back stronger. I would like to thank our technical team for the good work they did with you guys.”
Coach Leslie Notši told the gathering that it was very challenging when he started with the team in November last year.
“When I arrived here, the situation was hectic but one thing I managed to instill in this group was love for each other and the game, as well as self-belief. It wasn’t much of a problem though, because I found people who were willing to listen and learn new things. So tonight, we are all seeing the results of that relationship.
“I would like to thank the management, our sponsors and supporters because we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them,” said the former national team coach.
Notši also reminded the players that they should behave during the offseason break because football is not only about what happens on the field of play.
“Football is not only about what happens on the field of play but also the way you conduct yourselves outside the game. Remember you are representing the Kick4Life family wherever you are so go out there, get some rest, behave yourselves and watch what you do.
“Next season is going to be very tough because every team will come to you better-prepared so we have to come back stronger,” he said.