Masianokeng crowned Alliance High School champs

NTHAKO MAJORO

MASERU – Masianokeng High School triumphed as the new champions of the Alliance High School Tournament last Saturday, securing a decisive 4-1 victory over Bereng High School at the LCS Ground. The match was a showcase of skill and determination from both teams.

Bereng High School, based in Mafeteng, started strong with their captain, Mafito Mahlomola, scoring a goal just two minutes into the game. Masianokeng quickly responded, equalising three minutes later through Reamohetsoe Mohloai.

Bereng continued to press hard, almost reclaiming their lead five minutes after their first goal, but it was ruled out for offside. Their relentless pressure saw them nearly score again in the 12th minute, missing the target by inches.

Masianokeng’s goalkeeper, Tšepo Makoae, made a spectacular save in the 13th minute, pushing the ball over the crossbar. This shifted the momentum, and two minutes later, Tebello Hlohlongoane headed in Masianokeng’s second goal.

Despite Bereng’s efforts to exploit Masianokeng’s defensive errors, they could not convert their chances, and the teams entered halftime with Masianokeng leading 2-1.

In the second half, Masianokeng came out strong, making tactical adjustments that paid off. Their star striker, Tumisang Nkubu, scored two impressive goals, sealing the fate of Bereng and extending Masianokeng’s lead to 4-1.

Coach Tlokotsi Ndlovu of Masianokeng expressed immense pride in his team’s performance. “I am very proud of my team,” he said. “They played according to our plan.” He also thanked the school’s management for their unwavering support, which was crucial to the team’s success.

Ndlovu’s joy was amplified by finally triumphing over Bereng, a team that had often been their nemesis. “I am very happy that we ended up beating Bereng because they usually beat us,” he added. Bereng High School’s coach, Caswell Moru, remained positive despite the loss.

He acknowledged the efforts of his largely new team, saying: “Looking at the calibre of a team we have, I would say we did well. This is a completely new team. We only have two players from our last team, while the rest are new players.”

Moru expressed optimism for the future, stating that the experience gained this year would build a foundation for stronger performances next year. The tournament highlighted the growing popularity and competitive spirit of high school sports in Lesotho.

Teboho Pholo, President of the Lesotho Institutions Sports Association (LISA), praised the event’s success, noting the increased spectator turnout and the commitment of the sponsors, Alliance Insurance.

“This year’s tournament had a number of spectators, which was good, with Alliance as the sponsors also showing commitment,” Pholo said. He also emphasised the higher standard of play and the involvement of local coaches, which added to the tournament’s prestige.

Among the notable attendees was Matlama and under-17 coach, Halemakale Mahlaha. The winners, Masianokeng, took home M7,500, while the runners-up, Bereng, received M5,000. Third-placed Tsikoane High School earned M3,000, and fourth-placed Mohatlane High School took home M1,000.

Individual accolades went to Masianokeng goalkeeper, Makoae, named Goalkeeper of the Tournament, and Nkubu, honoured as Player of the Tournament.

The tournament, sponsored solely by Alliance Insurance, aims to showcase talent for its four-sponsored premier clubs: Lioli, Matlama, Linare, and LCS FC.

Over seven players from this tournament are now with top-flight clubs in the country, including Majantja striker Moriana Moriana and Matlama goalkeeper Leluma Mofoka.

The Alliance High School Tournament continues to be a vital platform for nurturing young talent and promoting sportsmanship in Lesotho. As the 2024 champions, Masianokeng High School have set a high standard for future competitions, leaving an indelible mark on this prestigious event.