Lioli are new darts champions

NTHAKO MAJORO

MASERU – In a nail-biting showdown at the Makoanyane Military Barracks, Lioli Darts Club emerged as the new Lesotho darts champions, dethroning the formidable former titleholders, Mali, with a thrilling 19-17 victory.

This triumph marks a significant milestone in Lioli’s history, as it is  their first time claiming the coveted title. Once known as BMI Darts Club, Lioli’s journey to the top was anything but easy.

Their path to victory was paved with fierce competition, beginning with a closely contested quarterfinal match against ISKA Darts Club, where they narrowly edged out their opponents with the same 19-17 score-line.

In the semi-finals, Lioli faced Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MIA), securing their place in the final with a convincing 19-13 win.

On the other side of the bracket, Mali showcased their prowess by decisively defeating Hunters 19-4 in the quarterfinals and outclassing LDF Darts Club 19-16 in a tense semi-final battle. Despite their strong performance, Mali could not withstand Lioli’s determined charge in the final.

The final match was a display of skill, strategy, and nerves of steel, with each dart thrown carrying the weight of the championship. The atmosphere at the military base was electric, as spectators watched Lioli, a team previously unaccustomed to such heights, deliver a performance that will be remembered for years to come.

For Lioli, this victory is more than just a title; it represents years of dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Veteran player ’Malefa Lithebe, who has been with the club through thick and thin, reflected on this historic achievement. “This is our first time reaching the final and winning the title,” she shared in an interview with Public Eye.

“Our previous best performance was reaching the quarterfinals and semi-finals.” Lithebe attributed their success to a combination of hard work, discipline, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

“We are a hard-working team. We are always practicing, even during our lunch breaks at work, to prepare for these finals,” she said. “Our humility, respect for the game, and discipline have also played a crucial role in our victory.”

Another key factor in Lioli’s success has been their investment in youth development. Lithebe proudly noted that the Berea-based club has nurtured around seven young players who have been integral to their league campaign.

“We used them in the league until we qualified for the finals, and we have done well, beating all the North teams to book a place in the national finals,” she explained.

Experience also played a significant role in Lioli’s triumph. Players like Lithebe, who have represented Lesotho at the highest levels, brought a wealth of knowledge and composure to the team.

“I would also say we have won the competition because some of us have needed exposure, having played darts at the highest level before,” she added. “Two of our young players have also represented the country before.”

Lioli’s victory was not just a personal achievement for the players but a win for the entire community. The team’s commitment to fostering talent and their dedication to the sport have paid off in a big way.

The champions were rewarded with a cash prize of M5,000, while the runners-up, Mali, took home M4,000. MIA and LDF received M3,000 and M2,000 for securing third and fourth places, respectively.

Individual brilliance was also recognised, with Tšepo Moalosi achieving the highest score of 126, Mali’s veteran Raleting scoring two perfect 180s, Lithebe herself scoring 180, and Kelebone Theko closing a game with an impressive 15 darts. Moeketsi Moabi, a rising star in the sport, was named the Young Promising Player of the Tournament.

As the dust settles on this year’s competition, Lioli’s triumph will be celebrated not only as a victory on the darts board but as a testament to the power of hard work, team spirit, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Their win has set a new benchmark in Lesotho darts, inspiring a new generation of players to aim for the stars.