Seabata Mahao
Two of the Vodacom Premier League’s (VPL) title-chasing titans, Lioli FC and Matlama FC are poised to take their championship battle to the final day of the season, as they will clash at Lioli stadium in Teyateyaneng, Berea on Saturday (tomorrow).
All the matches of the 2023/24 VPL season are scheduled to commence at 14:00 hours, as the fight at the top of the table bottom reaches its climax.
In anticipation for the gigantic showdown between Lioli and Matlama, the Premier League Management Committee (PLMC) has restricted the number of tickets to be sold for the encounter to 3,000.
Tankiso Moletsane, the Communications and Marketing Manager (CMM) of Lioli FC, expressed readiness to host the pivotal final match, emphasising the historical significance of their home ground, Lioli Stadium, which has hosted numerous significant VPL matches in the past.
“Lioli Stadium has been the venue for 90 percent of our matches. It is only fitting that we play our final home fixture here, in front of our supporters. Our goal is clear – to clinch the league title this Saturday and celebrate with our community,” Moletsane remarked.
On the other hand, Themba Talane, the Public Relations Officer of Matlama FC, affirmed their determination to give their all in the upcoming match. Talane encouraged their supporters to be present, underlining their acceptance of the venue chosen for the encounter.
“We have no qualms about the venue; it has been part of the fixture from the outset. We adhere to the regulations set forth by the governing authorities, and we urge our fans to do the same,” he stated. He also assured that their players are fully prepared, both physically and emotionally, for the challenge ahead.
In the current league standings, Lioli FC leads the table with 67 points, closely followed by Matlama FC with 65 points, and Bantu FC with 57 points.
Meanwhile, CCX FC, Manonyane FC, and ACE Maseru are locked in a battle for survival, with 19, 19, and 18 points respectively, while Naughty Boys FC faces relegation, languishing at the bottom with 10 points.
This weekend’s fixtures, slated for Saturday, May 18, will witness Liphakoe FC hosting LU FC at LCS Ground, LMPS FC hosting Bantu FC at PTC Ground, CCX FC hosting LCS FC at LAC Ground, Lifofane FC hosting Machokha FC at Botha-Bothe Ground, Linare FC hosting Manonyane FC at DIFA Maputsoe, Lijabatho FC hosting Naughty Boys FC at Morija Ground, and LDF FC hosting ACE Maseru at Ratjomose Ground.
