Likatola players struck by diarrhoea in Botswana

…as they lose 34-15 to Vultures

NTHAKO MAJORO

MASERU – A weekend of high hopes for Likatola, turned into a game of endurance as several players were struck by a bout of diarrhoea during their test match against Botswana’s Vultures. The match, held in Gaborone on Saturday, saw Likatola losing 34-15, a bitter defeat that Captain Bokang Ncheke attributes to the unexpected health crisis that hit the team. Despite taking an early lead and displaying solid teamwork, Likatola struggled to maintain momentum after halftime.  Likatola led 7-6 at the break but saw their performance crumble after several players were affected by diarrhoea, disrupting their play and focus.

“We played exceptionally well in the first half, but after halftime, the game took a turn for the worse. Our players began making mistakes, and fatigue set in quickly. That is where we lost the game,” said Ncheke during a post-match interview.

He went on to reveal that about seven players were severely affected, making it challenging for the team to keep up with the Vultures’ pace in the second half. “The diarrhoea really hurt our performance. It was unexpected, and it affected many of our key players.” The harsh conditions in Botswana compounded the team’s struggle.

“The heat in Botswana was extreme. It was a tough environment to play in, and our bodies just could not keep up after a strong first half,” Ncheke added. Likatola’s defeat marks the third consecutive loss against Botswana’s Vultures in their rivalry, which dates back to 2014. In their first encounter, Likatola suffered a heavy 45-5 defeat, followed by another loss in 2016, where they were beaten 43-3 on home soil.

This latest defeat was particularly tough as it was their first international test match since 2019, and they had hoped to break the losing streak. Despite the loss, Ncheke had reason to celebrate as he was named the man of the match, earning a full bedroom suite for his outstanding performance. “It is disappointing to lose, but being named man of the match is a personal achievement. The award lifted my spirits, even though I wish the team had won,” Ncheke said.

The match was attended by among others the Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts, and Culture, Motlatsi Maqelepo. However, Likatola’s preparations had been far from ideal, with the team unable to camp before the match, something President of the Federation of Rugby Lesotho (FLR), Fetang Selialia, who was also team manager for this match, lamented.

The loss underscores the challenges Likatola face on the international stage, but with the team’s determination and potential, fans hope for a stronger comeback in their next match.