Bantu too hot for Mzamane
NTHAKO MAJORO
MASERU – Bantu Football Club delivered a dominant performance, defeating Premier League newcomers Mzamane 3-0 in an entertaining clash at Bambatha Tšita Sports Arena yesterday (Wednesday). The defending champions left no room for error as they cruised to their second consecutive victory, leaving Mzamane struggling to keep up. The match got off to an electrifying start, with Bantu setting the tone early. Lehlohonolo Fothoane broke the deadlock just eight minutes into the game, capitalising on a pinpoint cross from Hlompho ‘Stiga’ Kalake.
The goal was met with raucous applause from the Bantu faithful, who sensed that their team was in control.Bantu’s relentless attack continued throughout the first half, though they were guilty of missing several clear-cut chances. Despite this, their pressure never eased, forcing Mzamane’s goalkeeper, Thapelo Thupane, into action. Thupane produced a string of fine saves to keep his team in the game, particularly during a second-half onslaught. But even his best efforts could not prevent what was to come.
Just one minute into the second half, Bantu’s Tšeliso Botsane doubled the lead with a clinical finish, sending the crowd into a frenzy. As Mzamane’s defence scrambled to regain composure, Kalake put the result beyond doubt by scoring Bantu’s third goal in the 50th minute, sealing what was now a comfortable victory.
Despite the overwhelming score-line, Bantu coach James Madidilane praised his team’s overall performance but admitted that they could have done even better in the first half.”I’m happy with the boys, but we could have finished more of our chances early on. The second half showed what we’re capable of,” he said in a post-match interview with Public Eye.
On the other hand, Mzamane struggled to mount any significant threat. Their lack of attacking prowess left Bantu goalkeeper Ntsane Lichaba with little to do, as Mzamane failed to register a single shot on target in 90 minutes. Coach Bota Ramantsoe remained optimistic, however, praising his players for sticking to the game plan, despite the defeat.
“We followed our strategy, and I believe this will help us learn where to improve moving forward,” Ramantsoe stated. This was Mzamane’s second consecutive loss following a 1-0 defeat to Manonyane last weekend, while Bantu’s form continues to rise. Bantu’s next challenge is against LMPS in the Maluti Cement Charity Cup on Saturday, where they will hope to extend their winning streak.
