The much-anticipated week 21 fixtures of the Vodacom Premier League (VPL) have been postponed by the Premier League Management Committee (PLMC) due to the scheduling of a referee’s fitness test.
The decision, announced in an official memorandum, has affected all matches initially set for April 5.
“Kindly be informed that all matches scheduled for the April 5th, 2025 have been postponed due to a change in the dates for the referee’s fitness tests. Initially scheduled for the 6th of April, the responsible committee has now confirmed that the fitness tests will be a two-day event, resulting in the postponement of the matches,” read the PLMC’s statement.
“These postponed matches will be rescheduled, and the new date will be communicated to you by the PLMC in due course. However, please note that the fixtures scheduled for the April 12th and 13th 2025 will proceed as per the schedule shared with you this past week,” the memorandum further stated.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from clubs and supporters alike, with many expressing disappointment at the disruption, while others acknowledge the necessity of maintaining high refereeing standards.
Meanwhile, last weekend’s results saw Matlama FC produce a stunning display, demolishing Manonyane FC 5-0 in an electrifying showdown as the 2025/2026 league season heats up.
The match, played last Sunday, was a masterclass in attacking football from Matlama, who left their opponents reeling.
Right from the kickoff, Matlama showcased their intent, launching wave after wave of attack. Within the first ten minutes, the breakthrough came when Freddie Hlalele found the back of the net, putting Matlama ahead 1-0.
As the match progressed, the dominance of Matlama became even more evident. In the 31st minute, Lazola Jokojokwana doubled the lead, sending their supporters into jubilation.
Four minutes later, the pressure intensified as Charlie Hlalele added a third goal, leaving Manonyane struggling to contain the relentless attack. With Matlama in complete control, Jokojokwana struck again just before halftime, securing his brace and extending Matlama’s lead to a commanding 4-0.
Despite the uphill battle, Manonyane made tactical adjustments at halftime in an attempt to contain Matlama’s attacking threat. However, their efforts proved futile as Matlama’s defense stood firm, shutting down any hopes of a comeback.
The final blow came in the dying moments of the match when Phafa Tšosane sealed the victory with a fifth goal in the 90th minute, capping off a dominant performance by the league leaders.
Following the match, Matlama’s head coach, Halemakale Mahlaha, praised his team’s tactical discipline and execution on the field.
“I am very pleased with how the team played. We made adjustments in our formation and the boys executed it well,” Mahlaha stated.
He further emphasised the importance of returning strongly after a long break, citing the need to maintain momentum.
“After a long break, we knew we had to come back strong, and we are thrilled with how the boys performed.”
Mahlaha also highlighted that squad rotation was necessary due to player fatigue following their involvement in the Mantšonyane Cup and international competitions.
“Each player is vital to our setup, and I am happy to see everyone giving their best. The victory today is a collective effort,” he added.
On the other hand, Manonyane’s coach, Mpo Ramokotjo, admitted that his team had been caught off guard by Matlama’s strategy.
“We expected Matlama to play through the center of the field, but they attacked more from the wings, which we weren’t prepared for,” Ramokotjo said.
He acknowledged that tactical changes were necessary during the match but conceded that the early deficit made it difficult to mount a comeback.
“This is our fifth consecutive loss, and we know we need to regroup,” he added.
Despite the heavy defeat, Ramokotjo remains determined to rebuild his team’s confidence and refocus ahead of their upcoming fixtures. He stressed the need for mental resilience as the season approaches its critical stages.
Following this emphatic victory, Matlama now sits comfortably at the top of the league standings with 48 points. Lioli FC remains in close pursuit with 45 points, keeping the title race alive. On the other hand, Manonyane finds itself in a precarious 11th position with just 21 points and will be looking to turn their fortunes around in their next encounter against Liphakoe FC.
In other weekend results, Lioli FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Majantja FC, while LCS FC showcased their firepower with a commanding 3-0 win over ACE Maseru FC. Bantu FC edged out Mzamane FC with a 1-0 victory, while LMPS FC and Lifofane FC played out a 1-1 draw. Similarly, Liphakoe FC and Lijabatho FC also settled for a 1-1 stalemate.
As the league action resumes in the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Matlama as they prepare for a high-stakes clash against title challengers Lioli FC. Meanwhile, Manonyane will face a crucial test against Liphakoe FC in what could be a defining match for their survival hopes.
With the business end of the season fast approaching, the race for the title and the fight for survival promise thrilling action in the coming weeks.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports.
Started working at Newsday in 2021.
has an Associate Degree in Journalism and Media.
